OxLOS  ANCEi.fr. 


A\^: 


^r:        -< 


REYNARD    THE    FOX. 


A   BURLESQUE    POEM 


FROM   THK 


LOW-GERMAN    ORIGINAL    OF    THK    FIFTEENTH    CENTURY. 


To  show  what  th'  adage  says  of  old  : 
That  Wit  is  better  far  than  Gold. 


BOSTON: 
DE  VRIES,  IBARRA  &  CO. 

NEW  YORK:   CHARLES  SCRIBXEK.       . 
1865. 


307  73 


Knterrd  arcordinir  to  Act  of  C»ngreK»,  in  the  year  IHfH,  lijr 

I)K   VRIKS,   IRAKKA   AND   CO. 
In  the  Clerk'*  Offlco  of  the  Iii-iri,  t  Court  of  tlie  I  ii-iri,-i  of  Mauadi 


TT 


5" 


PREFACE. 


THE  Fable  of  the  Fox  is  of  a  very  ancient  origin ; 
for  it  may  be  traced  in  several  languages,  particu- 
larly in  the  German  and  French,  up  to  the  thir- 
teenth Century,  and  probably  it  existed  even  before 
that  period.  For  it  is  reported  that  a  certain  Earl 
Reynard,  or  Reginard,  a  vassal  of  King  Sveiitebold 
of  Lorraine,  who  lived  in  the  tenth  Century  of  our 
Era,  being  outlawed  and  persecuted  by  his  Sover- 
eign, found  means,  by  dint  of  his  slyness,  to  elude 
all  the  persecutions  of  his  King,  insomuch  that  his 
name  had  become  proverbial,  as  denoting  a  sly  and 
cunning  person ;  and  it  is  supposed  by  many,  that 
the  adventures  of  this  Earl  furnished  the  first  ma- 
terials for  the  fable. 

The  names  of  Tsegrim  and  Reynard,  applied  to 
the  Wolf  and  Fox  by  the  German  and  French 
writers,  being  originally  German,  seem  to  indicate 

[Tj 


VI  PREFACE. 

that  the  fable  first  of  all  was  composed  by  a  Ger- 
man author,  although  we  do  not  know  at  present  of 
any  production  of  that  kind  in  German,  of  so  early 
a  date. 

Towards  the  latter  end  of  the  fifteenth  Century 
the  fable  of  the  Wolf  and  Fox  became  the  vehicle 
of  several  poignant  satires  against  the  vices  and 
corruptions  of  those  times,  and  the  following  works 
of  that  tendency  have  been  mentioned  by  Hearne, 
Flogel,  Marchand  and  other  philologists  : 

Reynard  the  Fox,  printed  for  Wm.  Caxton. 
Westminster  1481.  Folio. 

De  Historic  van  Reynaert  de  Vos.  Delft.  1485. 
Quarto. 

Le  Livre  de  Maistre  Reynard  &  de  sa  femme 
Hereante.  1478.  Quarto. 

Last  of  all  a  Poem,  written  in  the  Low- German 
dialect,  and  entitled  Reyneke  de  Vbs,  was  published 
at  Lubeck  in  the  year  1498.  Only  a  single  Copy 
of  this  edition  remains  extant  in  the  library  of  the 
Duke  of  Brunswick. 

A  second  edition  of  this  work  was  published  at 
Rostock  in  1515,  and  a  third  in  1517  at  the  same 
place.  The  former  is  lost,  but  of  the  latter  a  Copy 


PREFACE.      t  VH 

is  said  to  exist  in  the  library  of  the  King  of  Saxony. 
The  fourth  edition,  published  by  Nicholas  Bauman 
and  printed  for  Ludwig  Dietz  at  Rostock  in  1522, 
seems  likewise  to  be  lost ;  but  a  fifth  edition  was 
published  in  1539  by  the  same  bookseller  at  Ros- 
tock. A  Copy  of  this  edition  —  which  is  very 
rare  —  is  deposited  in  the  library  of  the  city  of 
Hamburg. 

The  Author  of  the  Low-German  Original,  in 
his  preface  to  the  first  edition  of  his  Work,  called 
himself  Hinrek  van  Alkmer,  tutor  and  preceptor  to 
the  Duke  of  Lorraine,  and  said  that  he  translated  it 
from  the  French  and  Walloon  languages  ;  but  it 
has  been  long  since  the  opinion  of  Philologists,  that 
the  name  of  Hinrek  van  Alkmer  was  only  a  ficti- 
tious one,  assumed  by  the  real  author  Nicholas 
Bauman  for  political  reasons ;  for  he  lived  at  first 
as  secretary  with  the  Duke  of  Juliers ;  but  having 
incurred  the  displeasure  of  the  Duke,  he  entered  as 
secretary  into  the  service  of  Magnus,  Duke  of  Meck- 
lenburg, whose  favorite  he  became,  and  in  whose 
service  he  continued  till  his  death,  which  happened 
at  Rostock  in  1526.  All  these  circumstances  have 
been  also  confirmed  by  the  descendants  of  Bauman. 


Vlii  PREFACE. 

y 

In  fact  no  such  name,  as  Hinrek  van  Alkmer  is 
to  be  found  upon  record  any  where  among  the 
names  of  the  Literati  of  the  middle  age  ;  excepting 
the  mention  made  of  it  in  the  preface  to  the  first 
edition  of  Reyneke  de  Vos  of  1498  ;  and  it  is  .to 
be  observed,  that  in  the  numerous  subsequent  edi- 
tions, which  have  been  published  by  Ludwig  Dietz 
at  Rostock,  down  to  the  year  1549,  only  the  name 
of  the  editor  Bauman  is  mentioned,  and  not  a  word 
said  about  Hinrek  van  Alkmer. 

Moreover  it  is  hardly  to  be  conceived,  that  a 
work,  which  was  at  first  published  at  Lubeck,  and 
afterwards  at  Rostock,  should  have  been  composed 
by  an  author  residing  in  Lorraine ;  or  that  an  in- 
habitant of  that  Country  should  have  wrote  a  poem 
in  a  dialect,  which  is  peculiar  to  Low-Germany, 
and  particularly  to  the  province  of  East-Frisia,  the 
native  country  of  Bauman. 

But  be  this  as  it  may,  it  is  certain  at  least,  that 
whosoever  was  the  author  of  Reyneke  de  Vos, 
he  was  a  man  of  much  wit,  learning,  humour  and 
knowledge  of  mankind,  and  that  his  work  is  a  val- 
uable specimen  of  ancient  Low-German  poetry, 
full  of  poignant  satire  against  the  vices  and  abuses 


PREFACE.  IX 

of  his  time,  and  that  it  contributed  no  less,  than  the 
works  of  Erasmus,  Rabelais  and  Boccaccio,  to  pave 
the  way  for  the  Reformation.  It  was  one  of  the 
first  works  printed  in  Germany,  and  it  was  at  that 
time  very  popular. 

Like  the  Don  Quixote  of  Cervantes,  it  has  ever 
since  preserved  its  popularity.  From  the  fifteenth 
down  to  the  end  of  the  eighteenth  Century  no  less 
than  twenty  two  editions  of  the  Original  have  been 
published,  and  at  the  same  time  it  has  been  trans- 
lated into  almost  every  language  of  Europe,  nay 
even  into  Latin  verse  by  Herrman  Schopper  in 
1567,  and  into  Hebrew  by  Rabbi  Barachias  Ben 
Natronai  in  1557.  Goethe,  the  great  German 
Poet,  translated  it  into  German  Hexameters ;  and 
a  second  edition  of  the  translation  in  German  Dog- 
gerel-Rhymes (the  same  metre,  in  which  the  Orig- 
inal is  written),  has  been  published  with  success. 

The  Consanguinity  of  the  languages  has  sug- 
gested the  attempt  at  English  Paraphrase,  which  is 
now  offered  to  the  Public. 

Hypercritics  may  possibly  find  fault  with  some 
passages  in  the  poem,  which  savor  a  little  of  the 
indelicate  taste  of  the  middle  age.  They  could  not 


X  PREFACE. 

be  expunged  entirely,  without  deviating  from  the 
plan  of  the  fable,  with  which  they  are  so  closely 
interwoven,  that,  without  them,  much  of  the  comical 
effect  of  the  poem  would  be  lost;  but  the  en- 
deavor has  been  made  to  mitigate  them  as  much 
!as  possible.  Besides,  none  of  them,  even  in  the 
rude  style  of  the  original,  contain  such  indelicacies 
as  Butler's  ffudibras,  which  still  meets  with  ad- 
mirers (and  in  many  respects  not  undeservedly)  in 
our  polite  age. 

It  has  been  thought  expedient  to  transplant  the 
scene  of  action  from  Germany  to  England,  imagin- 
ing that  this  would  adapt  the  subject  more  to  the 
taste  of  the  English  reader. 

Another  alteration,  which  has  been  adopted,  re- 
spects the  outward  form  of  the  work.  The  Original 
is  divided  into  four  Books,  of  which  the  first  con- 
tains thirty  nine  Chapters,  the  second  only  nine,  the 
third  fourteen  and  the  last  thirteen.  The  dispro- 
portion appeared  to  be  too  great  between  the  first 
Book  and  the  three  others.  The  same  disproportion 
also  prevailed  in  the  subdivision  of  the  Chapters, 
some  of  which  contained  upwards  of  two  hundred 
lines,  and  others  only  twenty.  Instead  of  this,  the 


PREFACE.  XI 

whole  Poem  has  been  divided  into  four  Parts,  and 
each  Part  into  three  Cantos. 

Finally,  Philologists  express  the  opinion,  that 
the  first  book  of  the  Original  (which  compre- 
hends the  first  and  second  part  of  the  present 
Paraphrase)  contains  in  fact  a  translation,  or  an 
imitation  of  some  other,  more  ancient  work,  and 
that  the  rest  was  composed  by  the  Poet  himself. 

Beside  the  passages  alluded  to  above,  several 
other  abridgments  have  been  made,  in  order  to 
avoid  the  pleonasms  and  tautologies  which  fre- 
quently occur  in  the  Original,  and  in  most  of  the 
other  works  of  the  middle  age. 

V  D. 


CONTENTS. 


P  A  E  T    I. 

PAGE 

CANTO  I.    THE  ACCUSATION 17 

II.  THE  FIRST  SUMMONS 31 

III.     THE  SECOND  SUMMONS 45 

PART    II. 

0 

CANTO  I.     THE  TRIAL 64 

II.     THE  PARDON 76 

III.     THE  RELAPSE .  88 

PART    III. 

CANTO  I.    THE  OUTLAWRY 108 

II.     THE  JOURNEY 120 

III.  THE  ADVOCACY 135 

PART    IV. 

CANTO  I.     THE  SECOND  PARDON 152 

II.    THE  DEFIANCE 173 

III.    THE  BATTLE 190 

[xiii] 


NAMES 

APPLIED   TO  THE  ANIMALS,   WHICH   APPEAR  IN  THIS   POEM. 


NOBLE the  Lion. 

REYNARD  (also  Rankey)    .     .     .  the  Fox. 

ERMINET the  She-Fox. 

RANKEY  and  RUSSET   .     «    .     .  their  Whelps. 

GROWLER the  Wolf. 

SURLY the  She -Wolf. 

GIB the  Cat. 

FRISKY the  Lap-Dog. 

GRAY the  Badger. 

CHANTICLEER the  Cock. 

SIMPLE the  Ram. 

CASTOR the  Beaver. 

PUG the  Monkey. 

PRY the  She-Ape. 

Puss   : the  Hare. 

BROWN the  Bear. 

[xv] 


%  Jfm 


PAET    I. 
CANTO    I. —  THE   ACCUSATION. 

ARGUMENT. 

King  Noble  orders  public  feasts 

For  all  his  Subjects,  birds  and  beasts.         • 

Reynard,  accus'd  of  knavish  art, 

Gray,  his  relative,  takes  his  part ; 

When,  lo !  the  Cock,  Sir  Chanticleer 

And  all  his  family  appear 

With  fresh  complaints.    The  King,  by  warrant, 

Sends  for  the  Fox.    Brown  goes  the  errand. 

IT  happen'd  on  a  Whitsunday, 
When  woods  and  fields  look'd  green  and  gay, 
When  balmy  flow'rs  and  herbs  were  springing, 
And  feather'd  folks  were  sweetly  singing ; 
The  Morn  was  fine,  the  weather  clear, 
And  fragrant  odours  fill'd  the  air, 
When  Noble,  sov'reign  King  of  Beasts, 
Proclaim'd  a  Court  and  public  feasts. 
His  loyal  Subjects,  Lords  and  Commons, 
Obey'd  their  Master's  royal  summons, 
2 


(8  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  fPAKT  I 

And  many  a  valiant  Knight  and  Squire 

To  Court  repair'd  in  grand  attire 

With  their  attendants,  great  and  small ; 

'T  was  difficult  to  count  them  all. 

E'en  Crane  and  Jackdaw,  Rook  and  Jay,  15 

Buzzard  and  Owl,  came  forth  that  day; 

For  Noble  to  this  sumptuous  feast 

Had  summon'd  every  bird  and  beast, 

Save  crafty  Reynard,  who  alone, 

For  vilest  mischief  he  had  done,  20 

Was  holden  in  such  ill  report, 

He  durst  not  show  his  face  at  Court. 

As  deeds  of  darkness  shun  the  light, 

So  Rankey  did  ;  that  treach'rous  wight, 

Convinc'd,  he  would  not  be  commended  25 

By  those,  he  had  so  oft  offended. 

No  one  was  found  on  that  dread  day, 

Except  his  friend,  the  Badger  Gray, 

But  who,  when  Sessions  did  begin, 

Brought  against  him  some  Action  in.  30 

Growler,  the  Wolf  and  his  relations 
Presented  first  their  accusations. 
Growler  the  royal  Throne  approach'd, 
And  thus  his  doleful  tale  he  broach'd : 
'•  May't  please  Your  Majesty,  for  Pity  3.) 

And  Justice'  sake  I  do  intreat  Ye 
To  listen  to  the  rueful  story 
Of  wrongs,  which  I  must  lay  before  Ye ; 


CANTO  I.]  THE   ACCUSATION.  19 

For  Reynard,  vilest  of  his  race, 

Hath  overwhelm'd  me  with  disgrace.  40 

My  wife,  alas!  he  has  beguil'd, 

My  children  too  he  hath  defil'd, 

For  with  his  ordure,  out  of  spite, 

He  robb'd  them  of  their  precious  sight. 

When  tried  for  this  his  foul  offence,  45 

Instead  of  making  a  defence, 

Away  the  sneaking  rascal  stole, 

And  basely  fled  into  his  hole. 

I  should  not  finish  in  a  week, 

Of  all  his  knavish  tricks  to  speak  ;  50 

Nay,  if  the  greatest  Linen-draper 
Had  all  his  stock  made  into  paper, 
'T  were  not  sufficient  to  contain 
The  wrongs,  of  which  I  might  complain. 
Then  grant  me  but  this  one  request :  55 

Revenge  my  wife ;  I  waive  the  rest." 

When  Growler  thus  his  speech  had  ended, 
Frisky,  a  Lap-dog,  much  offended, 
Began  a  tale  in  French,  and  swore  : 
"  Parbleu  !  "  that  when  he  had  no  more,  60 

Than  one  poor  sausage,  in  a  wood 
Vile  Rankey  robb'd  him  of  his  food. 

Him  Gib,  the  Cat,  did  hastily 
Cut  short.    "  In  troth,  Your  Majesty 
(Quoth  he)  may  well  on  Reynard  frown ;  65 

'T  is  felt  by  all,  to  All 't  is  known, 


20  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  I. 

We  stand  of  him  iii  greater  fear, 

Than  of  Yourself.     This  Frisky  here, 

However,  tells  a  pretty  story, 

But  lame,  as  I  shall  prove  before  Ye.  70 

The  sausage,  Sir,  in  fact  was  wn'ne, 

Although  to  claim  it,  I  decline. 

One  night,  in  close  pursuit  of  game, 

By  chance  into  a  mill  I  came ; 

The  miller,  who  sat  in  the  passage,  75 

Was  fast  asleep  ;  I  took  the  sausage, 

And  therefore  Frisky  must  admit, 

That  he  had  no  pretence  to  it." 

"  Gib  (said  the  Leopard),  't  is  in  vain, 
Of  such  small  matter  to  complain.  80 

We  know  full  well,  that  Reynard's  tricks 
Are  more  provoking,  than  Old  Nick's ; 
He  robs  and  steals  like  any  thief 
And  footpad,  and  he  would  as  lief 
Sell  King  and  Country  for  a  pullet,  85 

As  you  catch  mice,  to  fill  your  gullet. 

To  prove  the  truth  of  what  I  say, 
Hear  what  hath  happen'd  yesterday 
To  tim'rous  Puss,  the  harmless  hare  : 
To  cozen  her  into  a  snare,  90 

With  promises  the  wretch  begun  : 
He  swore,  she  should  become  a  nun, 
And  he  would  teach  her  to  sing  mass, 
As  naturally,  as  eat  grass. 


CANTO  I.]  THE   ACCUSATION.  21 

But  when  upon  her  Knees  she  fell  95 

(Convinc'd  that  Reynard  meant  it  well), 

To  sing  the  Creed,  the  villain  seiz'd  her, 

And  between  both  his  knees  he  squeez'd  her, 

And  would  have  kill'd  her,  if  her  cry 

Had  not  struck  me,  as  I  pass'd  by.  100 

I  heard  the  noise,  and  going  in, 

I  found  him  plucking  Pussey's  skin. 

The  wounds,  which  on  her  neck  appear, 

Confirm  the  truth  of  what  you  hear. 

If  you,  My  Lords,  would  now  defer  105 

To  punish  this  fell  murderer, 

You  would  encourage  him,  to  break 

The  King's  peace,  nay  in  time  his  neck ; 

For  those,  who  suffer  from  him,  would 

Seek  their  revenge,  on  whom  they  could,  110 

And  you  and  your  descendants  may 

Be  made  to  rue  it  some  fine  day." 

Quoth  Growler :  "  Very  true,  My  Lord ; 
The  Leopard  spoke  a  well-tim'd  word. 
All  peaceful  Creatures,  Sir,  will  thank  Ye          115 
If  you  will  hang  this  rascal  Rankey ; 
But  if  you  spare  him  on  this  score, 
He'll  rob  and  murder  hundreds  more." 

The  badger  Gray,  nephew  to  Reynard, 
To  plead  his  uncle's  cause  did  strain  hard,          120 
And  thus  he  did  the  Wolf  address : 
"  Sir  Growler,  an  old  proverb  says, 


22  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  I. 

No  Praise  comes  from  an  enemy. 
This  shows  your  bitter  calumny 
Against  my  uncle  Reynard  here,  125 

Who,  if  in  Court  he  should  appear, 
Would  make  some  busy  folks,  I  wot, 
Right  fain,  Sir  Wolf,  to  change  their  note. 
You  speak  of  faults,  long  since  committed ;  . 
But  why,  good  Sir,  have  you  omitted  130 

The  cruelties  and  actions  vile, 
Which  your  own  character  defile  ?  + 

You  probably  have  not  forgot 
Your  ent'ring  once  into  a  plot 
With  him,  to  stroll  about  for  booty,  135 

And  that  my  uncle,  true  t'  his  duty, 
Was  nearly  kill'd  on  your  account, 
Which,  with  your  leave,  I  must  recount : 
A  Clown  they  met  once,  with  his  Cart, 
Bringing  new  mackerel  to  mart ;  140 

Growler  was  eager  to  devour  them, 
But  lacking  money  to  pay  for  them, 
Reynard  had  pity  on  his  hard  case 
And  ventur'd  for  his  friend  his  carcase ; 
For  in  the  track  he  did  lay  down  145 

With  counterfeited  death  ;  the  Clown 
To  kill  my  uncle,  drew  his  knife, 
But  as  he  show'd  no  sign  of  life, 
He  careless  on  the  cart  did  lay  him, 
Drove  on  again,  and  meant  to  flay  him.  150 


CANTO  I.]  THE   ACCUSATION.  23 

Reynard  flung  down  the  mackerel, 

Which  Growler  pick'd  up,  as  they  fell, 

Who  wisely  follow'd  at  some  distance, 

And  came  not  near,  for  fear  of  mischance. 

Reynard  at  length  was  tir'd  of  keeping  155 

His  place,  and  from  the  carriage  leaping, 

He  for  his  share  of  th'  fish  did  call ; 

But  Growler  had  devour'd  them  all, 

And  he  got  nothing  for  his  pain, 

But  the  bare  bones,  which  did  remain.  1 60 

Soon  after  this  a  Butcher  kill'd 
A  fine  fat  Hog.  .  Sly  Reynard,  fill'd 
With  hopes  of  meeting  with  nice  fare, 
To  Growler  made  haste  to  repair. 
To  share  the  booty  they  agreed,  165 

When  Reynard,  eager  to  succeed, 
Rush'd  boldly  in,  and  flung  the  meat 
Out  of  the  shop  into  the  street, 
But  was  attack'd  by  Dogs,  who  curried 
His  hide,  till  he  was  almost  worried.  170 

All  bleeding  he  to  Growler  came, 
His  mess  of  pork  from  him  to  claim. 
Quoth  Growler :  "  Yes,  come  here  and  eat 
This  fine  fat  morsel  of  hog's  meat," 
And  with  a  sneer  to  him  he  flung  1 75 

The  Crook,  on  which  the  sow  had  hung. 
Reynard,  for  usage  so  unfair, 
Was  mad  with  rage  and  with  despair. 


24  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  I. 

Nay,  many  other  tricks  I  could 

Report  like  this,  Sir,  if  I  would  ;  180 

But  I'll  be  silent  on  the  rest, 

Reynard  himself  can  tell  them  best. 

I  only  shall  observe,  My  Lord, 

That  Growler  spoke  a  foolish  word, 

And  brought  great  scandal  on  his  wife,  185 

Whom  at  the  peril  of  his  life 

He  ought  to  screen  from  defamation. 

But  to  refute  his  accusation, 

Some  years  ago  Reynard  by  chance 

Met  "with  Dame  Surly  at  a  dance  190 

In  Growler's  absence  ;  he  was  ready 

To  show  attention  to  the  lady, 

And  (as  report  says)  she  no  less 

Was  pleas'd  with  Reynard's  courteousness  ; 

At  least  we  never  heard  her  mention  195 

That  he  abus'd  her  condescension  ; 

Nor  can  it  add  to  Growler's  honour. 

To  bring  disgrace  and  blame  upon  her. 

The  Leopard's  tale  of  Puss  is  nought ; 
For  if  she  sung  not  as  she  ought,  200 

Reynard,  her  teacher  and  director 
Did  right,  to  punish  and  correct  her. 
Young  folks  are  petulant  and  wild ; 
To  spare  the  rod,  would  spoil  the  child. 

Beau  Frisky  too  had  best  refrain,  205 

Of  loss  of  sausage  to  complain. 


CANTO  I.]  THE   ACCUSATION.  25 

You  heard,  My  Lord,  that  in  the  woods 

Reynard  took  from  him  stolen  goods. 

What  on  the  devil's  back  is  got,     « 

Under  his  belly  goes  to  pot.  210 

Reynard,  for  acting  as  he  did, 

Deserves  more  to  be  prais'd,  than  chid. 

The  duty  of  men  in  high  trust  is, 

To  bring  such  sneaking  rogues  to  Justice ; 

If  he  had  hang'd  the  Cur,  't  is  true,  215 

The  devil  had  but  got  his  due ; 

But  Reynard  modestly  refrain'd ; 

Because  it  is  by  law  ordain'd, 

That  Kings  alone  should  have  the  sway, 

To  take  a  Subject's  life  away.  220 

Reynard  with  so  much  loyalty 

Respects  the  rights  of  Royalty, 

That,  since  Your  Majesty  proclaim'd 

A  general  peace,  he  never  maim'd, 

Nor  hurt  a  single  peaceful  creature ;  225 

For  he  is  of  such  sober  nature, 

That  he  makes  but  one  meal  a  day, 

And  like  an  hermit,  his  array 

Is  a  coarse,  rugged  frock  of  hair ; 

Meat  he  abhorreth  for  his  fare,  230 

Nay  those,  who  saw  him  last,  will  tell 

He  left  his  house,  and  built  a  cell, 

And  was  grown  pale  with  everlasting 

Contrition,  penance,  pray'rs  and  fasting. 


26  EEYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PABT  I 

My  uncle  thus,  in  spite  of  railings  235 

And  slander,  expiates  his  failings, 
And  if  for  his  defence  you  call, 
He  will  confute  his  sland'rers  all." 

Gray  scarce  had  done,  when  Chanticleer 
The  Cock,  in  mourning  did  appear,  240 

Two  Sons  accompanied  their  Sire, 
Like  him  in  funeral  attire, 
With  hoods  of  crape  and  torches  lighted, 
And  doleful  lays  they  both  recited ; 
Two  others  follow'd  with  a  bier ;  245 

Mournful  and  slowly  they  drew  near, 
With  heartfelt  sighs  and  deepest  groan, 
Their  fav'rite  sister  to  bemoan. 

The  Cock  in  tears  the  Throne  approach'd, 
And  thus  his  sad  harangue  he  broach'd :  250 

"  My  Liege,  have  pity  on  a  man, 
The  most  distressed  of  his  clan. 
Who,  with  his  children  here  before  You, 
Is  come,  for  vengeance  to  implore  You 
On  Reynard,  who  with  fell  design  255 

Hath  done  great  harm  to  me  and  mine. 
When  hoary  winter  left  the  plain, 
And  Spring  smil'd  on  the  World  again, 
When  leaves  were  budding,  daisies  springing 
And  tuneful  birds  in  thickets  singing,  260 

The  Sun  at  dawn  of  morning  found  me 
With  my  young  family  around  me ; 


CAKTO  I.]  THE   ACCUSATION.  27 

« 

Ten  Sons  and  fourteen  Daughters  fair, 
Breathing  with  joy  the  genial  air, 
All  of  one  breed,  and  full  of  life,  265 

Brought  up  by  my  good  prudent  wife. 
Protected  by  a  massy  wall 
And  six  bold  mastiffs,  stout  and  tall, 
They  liv'd,  in  spite  of  Reynard  crafty, 
Within  a  Cloister-yard  in  safety.  270 

Reynard  lurk'd  oft,  the  wall  around, 
But  ne'er  a  cranny  there  he  found ; 
Our  mastiffs  too,  who  were  awake, 
Wonld  force  him  to  his  heels  to  take ; 
For  when  within  reach  they  espied  him,  275 

With  claws  and  teeth  so  well  they  ply'd  him, 
That  narrowly  he  saved  his  fleece, 
And  for  some  time  left  us  in  peace. 

But  lo !  our  enemy  contriv'd, 

Our  joy,  alas  !  should  be  short-liv'd.  280 

In  hermit's  garb  the  traitor  came, 
With  letters,  written  in  Your  name, 
Where  strictest  orders  were  express'd, 
To  keep  peace  between  bird  and  beast. 
He  said,  he  scoru'd  the  joys  of  sense,  285 

And  led  a  life  of  penitence, 
To  expiate  his  former  guilt, 
And,  streams  of  blood,  which  he  had  spilt ; 
He  vow'd,  in  future  he  would  eat 
No  poultry,  nor  forbidden  meat..  290 


28  RETNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  I 

A  hood  lie  wore,  and  scapulary, 

And  next  t'  his  skin  a  frock  ;  all  hairy  ; 

And  testimonies  from  his  Prior 

Shovv'd  that  he  was  become  a  friar. 

At  parting  he  said  :  "  Well,  my  friend,  293 

I  to  the  Lord  thee  recommend, 

For  I  must  look  to  ray  affairs, 

And  go,  to  say  my  evening  pray'rs." 

Thus  canting  he  went  off;  but  laid 

For  us  a  treach'rous  ambuscade.  300 

All  joyful  to  my  little  crew, 
To  tell  the  happy  news  I  flew,  • 

That  Reynard  friar's  garments  wore, 
And  was  our  enemy  no  more. 
Now  for  the  first  time  we  did  venture  305 

Out  of  our  gate.     A  dire  adventure 
Awaited  us ;  for  whilst  we  stray'd 
And  sported  on  a  sunny  glade, 
Reynard,  conceal'd  below  a  bush, 
Upon  us  suddenly  did  rush;  310 

One  of  my  hopeful  Sons  he  slew, 
And  of  my  fairest  daughters  two, 
And  since,  where'er  he  can  detect  them, 
Nor  walls,  nor  mastiffs  can  protect  them  ; 
By  main  force,  or  by  cunning  sleight,  315 

He  picks  them  up  by  day  and  night. 
Five  only  out  of  twenty-four 
Are  left ;  the  rest  he  did  devour. 


CAlfTO  I.]  THE    ACCUSATION.  29 

My  daughter  Rake-up  on  this  bier, 

Slain  by  the  murderer,  lies  here ;  320 

He  bit  her  neck  off  yesterday. 

Revenge  her  death,  my  Liege,  I  pray." 

"  Sir  Gray  (quoth  Noble)  did  you  hear  ? 
Fine  things  of  th'  hermit-fox  appear. 
Was  't  thus,  that  with  his  fasts  he  meant  it  ?      325 
Sure  as  I  live,  he  shall  repent  it! 

Good  Cock,  we  Ve  heard  your  mournful  tale, 
And  we  your  daughter's  fate  bewail ; 
Thus,  first  of  all,  we'll  see  the  honour 
Of  funeral  rites  bestow'd  upon  her ;  330 

Next  with  our  Council  we  shall  further 
Consult,  how  to  revenge  this  murder." 

The  King  then  order'd  young  and  old, 
Vigils  for  the  dead  hen  to  hold  ; 
But  how  Placebo  Domino,  335 

Psalm,  Lesson  and  Response,  or  so, 
Was  sung,  what  Chapter  and  which  verse, 
Would  be  full  tedious  to  rehearse  ; 
We  therefore  cut  that  matter  short, 
And  hope,  the  Reader  thanks  us  for't.  340 

Soon  as  the  body  was  interr'd, 
A  marble  tomb-stone  was  prepar'd, 
On  whose  smooth  surface,  (as  we've  hear*d), 
The  following  epitaph  appear'd : 


80  REYNARD  THE  FOX.  [PART  L 

RAKE-UP,  BEGOT  BY  CHANTICLEER, 

IN   THE   COLD   GRAVE   LIES   BURIED   HERE. 

SHE  WAS  OP  HENS  THE  VERY  BEST, 
AND  FULL  OF  EGGS  SHE  LAID  HER  NEST. 
SHE  '8  BIT  TO  DEATH  BY  REYNARD  BASE. 
WAND'RER,  HAVE  PITY  WITH  HER  CASE.        350 

This  done,  King  Noble  to  his  hall 
A  Jury  of  wise  men  did  call, 
To  whom  he  signified  his  will, 
Against  the  Fox  to  find  a  Bill ; 
Which  being  found,  it  was  decreed  355 

To  summon  him  with  all  due  speed, 
To  come  to  Court,  and  not  to  tarry. 

This  message  Brown  was  bid  to  carry. 
King  Noble,  calling  forth  the  Bear, 
Quoth  he  :  "  Be  cautious,  and  take  care  360 

How  you  proceed  on  this  nice  errand ; 
For  Reynard  is  a  Knave,  so  arrant, 
So  full  of  wily  tricks  and  lies, 
He'll  make  you  disbelieve  your  eyes." 

"No,  no,  (quoth  Brown)  upon  my  oath.          365 
My  Liege,  I  should  be  very  loth, 
To  have  it  thought,  that  Reynard  could 
Cheat  me  with  tricks ;  nay,  if  he  would, 
I'd  make  him  smart  for  it  so  cruelly, 
He  never  should  forget  it,  truly.  370 


CANTO  H.  — THE  FIRST   SUMMONS. 


ARGUMENT. 

BROWN,  eager  for  the  Honey-mart, 
Is  sorely  dubb'd  through  Reynard's  art. 
Caught  in  a  Cleft  by  head  and  paws, 
He  loses  bQth  his  ears  and  claws, 
Of  which  fell  Reynard  makes  a  sport. 
The  wounded  Bear  limps  back  to  Court. 
King  Noble  and  his  Lords  and  Commons 
Send  to  the  Fox  a  second  summons. 

IN  highest  spirits  Brown,  that  stout 
And  mighty  man  of  war,  set  out. 
O'er  hills  and  mountains  he  with  speed 
Through  woods  and  thickets  did  proceed, 

Until  he  came  to  Malpertouse ; -^  5 

For  this  was  Reynard's  fav'rite  house, 
To  which  he  gave  a  preference, 
As  being  fittest  for  defence. 

When  Brown  came  there,  he  loudly  knock'd 
At  th'outer-gate,  which  he  found  lock'd.  10 

[31] 


32  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  I. 

He  bawl'd  out  with  a  dreadful  din : 

"  I'm  Brown,  your  cousin  ;  let  me  in, 

A  message  from  the  King  I  bear 

Of  great  importance,  as  you'll  hear. 

You  are  to  come  to  Court  with  speed,  15 

Your  cause  before  the  Lords  to  plead. 

He  vow'd  that,  if  you  disobey'd, 

You  should  be  either  hang'd  or  flay'd. 

Make  haste  to  follow  my  advice." 

Reynard  thought,  that  a  case  so  nice  20 

Requir'd  before  determination. 
First  a  mature  consideration. 
"  This  bear  (thought  he)  speaks  in  a  strain 
So  proud  and  bold,  that  I  would  fain 
Bring  down  his  pride."     Sly  Rankey  then  25 

Went  to  a  back-room  in  his  den ; 
For  Malpertouse,  a  war-like  place, 
Had  many  casemates,  cover'd  ways 
And  other  strong-holds,  which  he  could 
Or  shut,  or  open,  as  he  would.  30 

'T  was  there  he  used  to  skulk  away 
From  danger,  and  to  hide  his  prey, 
And  beasts,  which  sometimes  by  foul  hap 
Came  in,  were  caught  there  in  a  trap. 
He  first  consider'd  at  full  leisure  35 

Brown's  speech,  which  did  not  give  him  pleasure ; 
For  he  at  first  was  much  afraid 
Of  stratagem,  or  ambush  laid ; 


CANTO  II.]  THE   FIRST   SUMMONS.  33 

But  when  he  was  assur'd,  that  none 
Were  at  the  gate,  but  Brown  alone,  40 

He  banish'd  all  concern  and  fear, 
Unlock'd,  and  thus  address'd  the  Bear : 
"My  worthy  cousin,  welcome  here! 
I'm  glad  to  see  you;  pray,  what  clreer? 
Excuse  my  loit'ring  above  stairs-;  .         45 

I  just  was  at  my  evening  pray'rs. 
My  joy  I  scarcely  can  restrain  ; 
Welcome  my  dear  friend,  once  again  ! 
But  those,  who  sent  you,  Sir,  did  wrong  ; 
To  you  such  service  can't  belong.  50 

Was  there  no  messenger  at  hand, 
That  our  dread  Sov'reign  must  command 
The  Lord  Chief  Baron  of  his  Court, 
A  person  of  such  high  report, 
On  journeys  of  such  length  to  go?  55 

To  me  't  will  be  worth  much,  I  trow, 
That  You  vouchsaf 'd  to  take  that  pain ; 
Your  kind  advice  will  be  a  gain ; 
And  when  I  plead  my  cause  at  Court, 
I  much  depend  on  your  support.  60 

Nay,  had  you  not  been  sent  this  way, 
I  had  resolv'd  this  very  day, 
To  take  a  trip  to  Court  to-morrow. 
Mean  time,  I  can  not  (to  my  sorrow) 
Depart  immediately  with  you  ;  65 

For,  meeting  with  some  food,  quite  new, 
3 


34  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  I. 

It  so  much  swell'd  my  stomach,  Sir, 
That  I  have  not  the  power  to  stir." 
"  Pray,  friend  (quoth  Brown)  what  was  your  meat  ? 

"  What  signifies,  what  poor  folks  eat  ?  70 

(Quoth  Reynard),  small  fare,  take  my  word; 
You  know,  a  beggar  is  no  Lord. 
When  pantry  nothing  yields,  nor  churn, 
A  honey-comb  must  serve  our  turn. 
On  such  I  dined,  the  truth  to  tell  ye,  75 

And  it  is  like  to  burst  my  belly. 
I  could  not,  but  in  case  of  need, 
Resolve  to  eat  such  fare  indeed. 
At  other  times,  for  love  or  money, 
I  would  not  touch  a  bit  of  honey."  80 

"  Nay  friend,  (quoth  Brown),  pray  have  a  care, 
How  you  call  honey  poor  men's  fare. 
Honey  for  Kings  would  be  a  treat, 
In  preference  to  any  meat. 

Get  me  a  mess  on't,  and  I'll  strain  85 

A  nerve  or  two  for  you  again." 

"  Friend  Brown,  you  take  me  for  a  fool." 
"Not  I,  (quoth  Brown),  upon  my  soul." 

"  Well  then,  (quoth  Reynard  with  a  smile), 
We'll  call  on  neighbor  Rustyfile,  90 

And  since  you  are  so  fond  of  honey, 
We'll  get  some,  or  for  love,  or  money." 

These  tempting  words  much  pleas'd  the  Bear, 
And  hit  his  palate  to  a  hair. 


CANTO  II.]  THE    FIRST    SUMMONS.  35 

"  Let  us  make  haste  (quoth  he),  I  pray,  95 

And  show  me  to  the  hives  the  way." 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  You  shall  have  your  will, 
And  freely  own,  You've  got  your  fill ; 
For  though  I  can  not  walk  with  ease, 
I'll  do  my  best,  a  friend  to  please.  100 

Of  all  relatives,  Sir,  to  you 
I  wish  to  prove  myself  most  true, 
Convinc'd,  that  in  return  you'll  grant 
Your  kind  support,  which  I  shall  want. 
Then  let  us  here  no  longer  tarry ;  105 

You  shall  get  more,  than  you  can  carry." 

"  I'll  bring  thee  to  a  honey-mart 
(Thought  Rankey),  which  shall  make  thee  smart." 

With  such  lies  he  the  Bear  deceiv'd, 
Who  like  a  simpleton  believ'd,  110 

And  who  was  highly  overjoy'd 
When  he  the  farmer's  yard  descry'd. 

When  they  came  there,  the  day  was  fled, 
And  Rustyfile  was  gone  to  bed. 
He  was  a  Carpenter  by  trade ;  115 

An  Oak-tree  he  on  beams  had  laid, 
And  to  split  it  he  did  intend 
With  wedges,  driven  in  at  th'end ; 
The  timber  gap'd  near  half  an  ell, 
Whieh  Reynard  had  observ'd  full  well.  120 

"  Friend  Brown,  the  gap  here  in  this  tree 
Contains  a  swarm  of  bees,  (quoth  he). 


36  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  I. 

T  is  full  of  honey ;  come,  be  speedy, 

Pop  in  your  head,  but  don't  l>e  greedy, 

Lest  you  should  get  the  belly-ache"  125 

"  No  fear  of  that,  (quoth  Brown)  ;  don't  take 
Me,  Sir,  for  such  a  silly  creature  ; 
I  know  the  pow'rs  of  my  own'  nature." 

With  both  his  fore-paws  he  stept  in, 
And  over  head  and  ears  crept  in,  130 

Which  Reynard  watching,  he  pull'd  out 
In  haste  the  Wedges.     Brown,  the  stout, 
With  head  and  paws,  by  foul  mishap, 
Was  thus  caught  in  a  wooden  trap, 
And  could  not,  though  he  took  much  pain,         135 
His  forehand  disengage  again. 
He  tugg'd  and  pull'd,  and  tore  the  ground, 
And  fill'd  the  air  with  yelling  sound ; 
He  rav'd  and  roar'd  in  tone  so  deep, 
That  Rustyfile  shook  off  his  sleep,  140 

And  from  the  floor  in  haste  up  snatched 
For  his  defence  a  sharp-edg'd  hatchet, 
And  sallied  forth.     Brown  tried  again 
To  pull  his  head  out;  but  in  vain, 
And  when  the  Carpenter  appear'd,  145 

His  instant  death  he  sadly  fear'd. 

The  crafty  Fox  rail'd  at  him  too. 
"  Pray  friend,  (he  ask'd  him),  how  d'ye  do? 
I  hope  you  find  the  honey  sweet ; 
Be  cautious,  not  too  much  to  eat.  150 


CANTO  II.]  THE   FIRST    SUMMONS.  37 

Here's  Rustyfile ;  I  guess,  he'll  fill 
A  bumper  for  you,  if  you  will." 
So  Reynard,  in  a  jeering  strain, 
Laugh'd  at  him,  aud  ran  off  again. 

When  Rustyfile  approach'd,  and  found  155 

The  Bear  confin'd  in  wooden  pound, 
He  to  his  neighbors  ran  about, 
And  in  a  hurry  he  call'd  out : 
"  A  Bear,  my  Lads,  sits  in  my  yard 
Entrapt ;  come,  let  us  tan  his  sward."  1 60 

They  readily  obey'd  his  call, 
Took  up  their  arms,  and  join'd  him  all. 
One  seiz'd  a  prong,  the  next  a  stake, 
The  third  a  flail,  the  fourth  a  rake. 
The  parish-clerk  and  sexton  too  .  1 65 

Came  out,  and  join'd  the  war-like  Crew. 
E'en  black-eyed  Moll,  the  Curate's  maid 
(Who  the  best  marrow-puddings  made), 
Snatch'd  up  her  distaff,  and  away 
She  ran  in  haste,  to  join  the  fray.  170 

When  Brown  their  mighty  pother  heard, 
He  certain  death  most  sadly  fear'd, 
And  mad  with  anguish  and  with  pain, 
One  vig'rous  pull  he  tried  again, 
And  at  the  cost  of  ears  and  claws  175 

His  head  he  rescued  and  his  paws ; 
But  found  by  loss  of  blood  and  skin, 
He  came  not  out,  as  he  got  in. 


80773 


88  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  I. 

His  head  did  ache,  his  paws  were  sore, 

And  his  face  all  bedaub'd  with  gore.  180 

In  short,  the  honey,  which  he  got, 

Was  far  from  being  sweet,  I  wot. 

Rustyfile  in  the  front  attack'd  him 
And  many  valiant  Warriors  back'd  him  ; 
The  Blacksmith,  arm'd  with  iron  crow,  185 

Dealt  out  to  him  a  heavy  blow  ; 
The  villagers,  with  clubs  and  prongs, 
Their  wives  with  broomsticks,  rakes  and  tongs, 
The  Curate  too,  with  poker  heavy, 
Came  forth,  and  join'd  the  general  levy  ;  190 

But  most  of  all  a  man  of  high 
Descent  and  rank,  hight  Cucklerigh, 
Did  gall  him  much  ;  he  was  well  known 
To  fight  best,  when  he  was  alone. 
Trulla,  a  lady  of  known  fame,  195 

His  mother  was  ;  his  father's  name 
We  can  not  tell,  but  people  prate 
Of  th'  ostler  at  the  Bull  and  Gate. 
The  Women  too  fell  on  his  rear, 
Nor  means  to  save  him  did  appear,  200 

When,  lo !  an  awkward,  clumsy  clown 
Struck  but  too  wide,  to  bring  him  down. 

This  blow  so  luckily  escap'd, 
He  straight  among  the  Women  leapt, 
And  such  a  dreadful  rout  he  .made,  205 

That  four  of  them,  and  Curate's  maid 


CASTO  n.]  THE   FIRST   SUMMONS.  39 

Headlong  into  the  river  fell, 
And  piteously  for  help  did  yell. 

The  frighten'd  priest  began  to  bawl : 
"  Good  folks,  pray  save  my  housemaid  Moll ;     210 
Two  Casks  of  Ale  I  promise  you, 
And  twenty  years  indulgence  too. 
Make  haste,  help,  help,  she's  going  down. " 

On  this  the  Crowd  abandon'd  Brown, 
To  save  the  Women,  whom  all  five  215 

They  brought  on  shore  again  alive. 

Whilst  thus  he  saw  all  hands  employ'd, 
A  fit  occasion  Brown  espy'd, 
To  get  off  to  the  river's  brim. 
He  little  thought,  that  he  could  swim ;  220 

But  to  escape  more  dreadful  slaughter, 
A  gentler  death  he  sought  in  water. 
But  better  luck  him  there  befell ; 
He  found,  he  could  swim  pretty  well. 

When  this  the  busy  Crowd  perceiv'd,  225 

They  fretted,  and  were  sorely  griev'd. 
"  It  is  (they  cried)  the  greatest  shame, 
That  without  hurt  away  he  came. 
'T  is  all  these  meddling  Women's  fault, 
Who  wantonly  would  wage  th'  assault."  230 

But  when  they  found,  that  in  the  cleft 
His  ~ear  and  claws  the  Bear  had  left, 
They  call'd  out :  "  Earless  thief,  come  here, 
You  left  in  pawn  your  gloves  and  ear. " 


40  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  I. 

Brown,  with  the  damage  and  the  scoff,  235 

Meantime  was  eager  to  get  off, 
He  curs'd  the  tree,  which  took  him  in, 
And  robb'd  him  of  his  claws  and  skin ; 
Fell  Reynard  too,  his  foul  betrayer, 
II'  included  in  his  morning-prayer.  240 

He  with  the  current  for  a  while 
Dropt  down  the  river,  near  a  mile, 
And  on  the  further  bank,  with  pain 
And  toil,  he  limp'd  on  shore  again, 
Where  he  with  heavy  sigh  and  groan  245 

His  sad  dry-basting  did  bemoan. 

When  Reynard  him  by  subtle  thought 
Had  to  the  Honey-market  brought, 
He  to  a  hen-roost  took  his  way, 
And  carried  a  fat  fowl  away,  250 

With  which  he  to  the  river  bent 
His  course,  and  while  along  he  went, 
He  said :  "  It  was  a  lucky  thought, 
That  I  this  huffing  braggard  brought 
To  Rustyfile's.     I'm  sure,  he  will  255 

Salute  him  with  his  sharp-edg'd  bill. 
He  was  my  foeman ;  but  at  last 
He  lies  for  it  in  durance  fast. 
He  went  for  honey ;  but  ere  now 
The  Axe  has  done  for  him,  I  trow. "  260 

Thus  musing,  he  was  walking  down 
Along  the  river-side,  where  Brown 


CAMTO  II.]  THE    FIUST    SUMMONS.  41 

Lay  coucb'd.     The  unexpected  sight 
Of  him  did  not  give  him  delight. 

"  Oh  Rustyfile,  thou  silly  tool,  265 

(Thought  he),  thou  art  a  mere  Tom -fool. 
Didst  thou  not  care  for  such  nice  meat, 
Which  Dukes  and  Lords  would  wish  to  eat, 
When  straight  into  thy  mouth  it  ran  ? 
Thou  arrant  dolt  and  simpleton  ! "  270 

So  Reynard  thought ;  but  when  he  saw 
That  Brown  was  lacking  ear  and  claw, 
It  pleas'd  him  well,  and  with  a  sneer 
He  ask'd :  "  Pray  friend,  how  came  you  here  ? 
If  you  've  left  something  with  your  host,  275 

I  straight  away  to  him  shall  post, 
And  tell  him,  where  with  you  to  meet. 
Pray,  did  you  find  his  honey  sweet  ? 
And  did  you  handsomely  pay  for  it?  . 
But  where  have  you  bedaub'd  your  forehead  ?      280 
What  doth  the  purple  bonnet  mean  ? 
Are  you  an  Abbot,  or  a  Dean  ? 
The  bungler,  who  hath  shav'd  your  crown, 
Was  surely  a  most  clumsy  clown ; 
For  down  your  cheeks  the  red  drops  trickle.       286 
Faith  you  are  in  the  strangest  pickle. " 

Brown  could  no  longer  bear,  to  hear 
The  railing  rogue's  provoking  sneer, 
Nor  could  he  speak  a  word,  for  pain, 
Much  less  return  the  jeer  again.  290 


42  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  fPABT  I. 

He  therefore,  rather  than  to  stay, 

Resolv'd  to  take  himself  away, 

And  trusting  to  the  wave  once  more, 

He  swam  across  to  th'  other  shore. 

There,  being  out  of  breath,  and  spent,  295 

His  grief  and  sorrow  he  did  vent : 

"  I  could  not,  for  the  life  of  me, 

Stir  from  this  place  an  inch,  (thought  he)  ; 

And  yet  I  must  jog  on  to  Court, 

Where  my  mischance  will  be  the  sport  300 

Of  every  bant'ring  ragamuffin, 

Who  will  be  rallying  me  and  huffing. 

That  Caitiff  too,  who  did  betray  me, 

Seem'd  sorry,  that  they  did  not  slay  me. " 

So  saying,  he  did  limp  away,  305 

And  came  to  Court  in  great  dismay. 

When  Noble  saw  the  crippled  Bear 
In  such  a  dismal  plight  appear, 
He  said :  "For  heaven's  sake,  is  this  Brown  ? 
What  makes  him  look  so  much  cast  down  ?  "      310 

"  Cast  down,  indeed  !  (quoth  Brown),  You  see. 
Reynard,  that  traitor,  cheated  me ; 
Most  basely  have  I  been  betray'd." 

Quoth  Noble :  "  Never  be  it  said, 
That  such  a  man,  as  you,  was  shent,  315 

Without  severest  punishment. 
No,  by  this  sceptre,  which  I  bear, 
And  by  my  royal  crown  I  swear, 


CASTO  II.]  THE    FIRST    SUMMONS.  48 

All  damages  the  wretch  shall  pay 

As  high,  as  ever  you  them  lay ;  320 

Aud  if  I  don't  make  good  my  word, 

My  spurs  I'll  forfeit  and  my  sword." 

This  said,  his  Council  he  did  call, 
Enjoining  strictly  to  them  all, 
To  try  the  Fox  for  this  offence,  325 

Which  seem'd  to  admit  of  no  defence. 

They  all  agreed,  the  best  would  be, 
(Not  to  neglect  formality), 
To  summon  him  once  more  t'appear, 
And  that  Gib  should  the  message  bear.  330 

The  King  gave  his  assent  to  it ; 
For  Gib  did  not  want  sense  and  wit. 

This  measure  being  fix'd  upon, 
Gib  was  call'd  into  Court  anon. 

"  Mind  (quoth  King  Noble)  what  we  say,      335 
And  to  the  Fox  go  straight  away. 
Tefl  him,  this  is  the  second  summons, 
Sent  by  Us,  and  our  Lords  and  Commons, 
Which,  if  he  slights,  We'll  make  him  smart, 
In  spite  of  his  malicious  art.  340 

On  You  We  fix'd,  because  we  knew 
That  he  hath  some  regard  for  you." 

Quoth  Gib :  "  What  purpose  can  it  answer, 
To  send  me  to  that  crafty  man,  Sir  ? 
I  must  obey,  but  still,  to  send  345 

Some  abler  man,  I'd  recommend. 


44  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PABT  I. 

You  see,  of  person  I'm  but  small  : 

If  Brown,  who  is  so  stout  and  tall, 

Could  nor  respect,  nor  favour  gain, 

Pray,  what  can  /  from  him  obtain?"  350 

Quoth  Noble  :  "  '  T  is  not  by  their  size, 
That  numsculls  differ  from  the  Wise  ; 
For  oft  a  dwarf  is  found  as  clever, 
As  any  Giant,  whosoever. 

And  though  you  are  not  strong,  nor  tall,  355 

Your  good  sense  is  allow'd  by  All." 

"My  Liege,  (quoth  Gib),  your  will  be  done! 
If  I  -discover,  when  I'm  gone, 
Some  token  on  my  right-hand  side, 
Good  luck  my  journey  may  betide."  360 


CANTO   in.  — THE    SECOND    SUMMONS. 


ARGUMENT. 

foor  Gib  into  a  trap  is  cheated, 
And  by  the  Curate  rudely  treated. 
An  Eye  he  loses  in  the  fray. 
The  King  is  wroth.     The  badger  Gray, 
To  calm  his  anger,  service  proffers, 
And  to  fetch  Reynard,  boldly  offers. 
Reynard  sets  out,  and  by  the  way 
Confesses  all  his  sins  to  Gray. 

GIB  sallied  forth,  and  in  a  grove 
He  chanc'd  to  meet  a  cooing  dove. 
"  All  hail!  (quoth  he),  pray,  take  your  flight, 
My  gentle  bird,  here  to  my  right." 
The  dove  .took  wing,  alas  !  but  she  5 

Perch'd  on  his  left  upon  a  tree. 
Poor  Gib  for  fear  began  to  quake, 
As  if  -his  life  was  at  the  stake ; 
But  soon  recov'ring  from  his  fright, 
To  Malpertouse  he  came  at  night,  10 

[45] 


46  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PABT  I. 

And  putting  on  his  fairest  face, 

He  said :  "  The  King,  out  of  his  Grace, 

Greets  you  a  second  time,  my  friend ; 

But  you  must  straight-ways  condescend, 

Unto  his  palace  to  repair ;  15 

Else  he  doth  solemnly  declare 

That  you  shall  die,  and  all  your  race 

Shall  suffer  pain,  and  dire  disgrace." 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  Welcome,  friend !  I  burn 
With  Zeal,  your.  Kindness  to  return."  20 

The  rogue  was  thinking  in  his  heart 
How  he  could  act  his  knavish  part, 
And  give  to  Gib  the  same  sad  fare, 
With  which  he  had  regal'd  the  bear. 
Smiling  he  ask'd :  "  What  kind  of  meat  25 

Would  you  for  supper  like  to  eat  ? 
It  is  full  late,  me  thinks,  to  start ; 
But  in  the  morning  we'll  depart. 
On  you  with  confidence  I  rest, 
In  such  a  friend  supremely  blest.  30 

That  braggart  Brown  came  here  in  vain ; 
For  he  talk'd  in  a  blust'ring  strain, 
And  't  was  impossible  to  go 
With  such  a  bully,  sir,  you  know ; 
But  with  you  at  first  dawn  of  day  35 

I  readily  will  go  away." 

Gib  answer'd :  "  No,  I  dare  not  waste 
Much  time,  let  us  set  out  in  haste ; 


CANTO  HI.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  47 

'T  is  moonlight,  and  my  great  delight 

Is  walking  in  the  cool  of  night."  40 

"  To  walk  so  late  at  night  (quoth  he) 
Too  dangerous  for  us  would  be. 
The  man,  who  civilly  would  greet  us        * 
If  he  by  day  should  chance  to  meet  us, 
Would  give  us  quite  a  different  treat,  45 

Were  we  at  midnight  him  to  meet. ' 

«  Well  then,  (said  Gib,)  if  I  must  stay, 
What  shall  we  have  for  supper,  pray  ?  " 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  We  can't  offer  much, 
A  poor  man's  fare,  you  know,  is  such  50 

As  he  can  get.     We  could  contrive 
To  get  some  honey,  fresh  from  th'  hive : 
I'm  sure,  you'll  find  it  good  and  sweet." 

"  Honey  (said  Gib)  I  never  eat. 
What  else  have  you  in  your  house  ?  55 

If  you  could  give  me  a  fat  mouse, 
I  should  best  like  it  for  my  fare  ; 
But  for  your  honey  I  don't  care." 

"  Are  you  in  earnest,  friend  ?  (quoth  he.) 
'T  will  be  an  easy  thing  for  me,  60 

To  show  a  place,  where  in  a  trice 
You'll  get  a  belly-full  of  mice. 
Our  Curate  sorely  doth  complain, 
That  they  destroy  all  his  grain. 
He  lives  just  by ;  I'll  show  the  way."  65 

"  Then  let 's  make  haste,  and  go,  I  pray, 


48  REYNARD    THK    FOX.  [PART  I. 

(Quoth  Gib)  ;  no  venison  more  nice 
For  me,  was  ever  found,  than  mice." 

Quoth  Reynard  :  "  If  such  is  your  will, 
Of  mice  you  soon  shall  get  your  fill ;  70 

Come,  let  us  go  without  delay." 

Poor  silly  Gib  was  glad  t'  obey. 
On  mice  his  appetite  was  bent, 
And  to  the  Curate's  barn  they  went. 

Reynard  had  lately  broke  a  hole  75 

Into  the  Curate's  roost,  and  stole 
His  finest  Cock.     Young  Robinet, 
The  Curate's  son,  a  snare  had  set, 
To  catch  the  wily  thief;  but  he 
Had  smelt  a  rat.     "  Come,  Gib,  you  see  80 

This  hole  (he  said)  ;  whilst  you  creep  through, 
I  shall  here  keep  strict  watch  for  you, 
And  ere  your  sport  is  fairly  ended, 
You'll  find  how  much  you've  been  befriended." 

Quoth  Gib  :  "  Is  there  no  danger  near  ?  85 

I  feel  a  strange  degree  of  fear, 
These  priests  are  deep  ones,  Sir,  you  know." 

"  Why,  then  (said  Reynard)  let  us  go ; 
For  if  you  are  so  very  shy, 

Our  wants  at  home  we  can  supply.  90 

We  shall  find  something  in  my  house, 
Though  not,  perhaps,  a  nice  fat  mouse." 

Gib,  being  half  abash'd,  to  hear 
The  railing  rogue's  malicious  sneer, 


CANTO  TIT.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  49 

Headlong  he  leapt  into  the  snare.  95 

(So  Reynard's  guests  did  always  fare.) 

When  Gib  perceiv'd  that  he  was  taken, 
His  courage  terribly  was  shaken. 
He  pull'd  and  tore,  and  took  much  pain 
To  break  the  string,  but  all  in  vain ;  100 

The  more  he  labor'd,  to  get  loose, 
The  tighter  he  but  drew  the  noose. 
Most  piteously  he  mew'd  with  fear; 
Which  Rankey  was  rejoic'd  to  hear. 
He  ask'd  him  :  "  How  d'ye  like  the  mice,  105 

Good  Cousin  ?     Are  they  fat  and  nice  ? 
If  this  the  priest  knew,  or  his  son, 
That  you  feast  on  their  venison, 
Some  pepper  they  would  surely  bring. 
Is  this  your  way  at  Court,  to  sing  110 

At  supper  ?     Then,  upon  my  soul ! 
I  should  be  glad,  if  in  this  hole 
I  saw  the  Wolf  clapt  up  with  thee, 
For  all  the  harm,  he  did  to  me." 

This  said,  in  haste  he  ran  away,  115 

His  wonted  knavish  tricks  to  play. 
To  Surly's  den  he  did  intend, 
For  wicked  ends  his  course  to  bend. 
From  her  he  wanted  to  pump  out 
What  Growler  had  complain'd  about ;  1 20 

Her  old  affection  too  he  would 
Avail  himself  of,  if  he  could. 
4 


50  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  IP  ART  I. 

But  when  he  to  the  place  was  come, 

He  only  found  her  Whelps  at  home. 

"  Tell  Surly,  (said  he  with  a  jeer),  125 

Your  daddy  Reynard  hath  been  here." 

Surly  at  dawn  of  day  return'd, 
When  Reynard  scarce  his  back  had  turn'd. 
She  ask'd :  "  Did  any  body  call  ?  " 
Her  brats  said :  "  Nobody  at  all,  130 

But  Gaffer  Reynard,  who  would  tell 
He  was  our  Dad."     "  The  dev'l  in  hell ! 
(Said  she)  ;   woe  shall  the  wretch  betide, 
I'll  run,  and  tan  the  rascal's  hide." 
With  furious  ire  and  rage  she  ranted;  135 

She  knew  the  ways,  which  Reynard  haunted, 
And  coming  up  with  him,  she  said : 
"  You  wretch,  how  durst  you  to  upbraid 
A  mother  in  her  children's  face, 
By  utt'ring  of  her  things  so  base  ?  "  140 

Whilst  this  she  said,  with  visage  grim 
She  in  a  fury  flew  at  him. 
He  ran  away  in  hasty  flight ; 
She  follow'd  him  with  all  her  mi»ht, 
Till  they  came  to  a  ruin'd  castle.  145 

There,  in  a  wall  of  th'  ancient  bastil 
Reynard  a  crevice  did  espy, 
Through  which  he  slipt.     Surly  did  try 
To  follow  him  ;  but  being  tall 
And  fat,  she  stuck  fast  in  the  wall,  150 


CANTO  HI.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  51 

And  could  not,  though  she  took  much  pain, 
Push  forward,  or  get  back  again, 
And  ere  she  disengag'd  her  head, 
The  daring  ravisher  was  fled. 

We  leave  him  for  a  while,  to  tell  155 

What  in  the  mean  time  Gib  befell : 
When  he  was  caught  (as  we  have  said), 
And  piteously  call'd  out  for  aid, 
Out  of  his  bed  leapt  Robinet, 
The  youngster,  who  the  snare  had  set.  160 

He  all  the  servants  in  the  house 
With  joyful  clamor  went  to  rouse, 
And  striking  fire,  he  made  a  pother, 
To  wake  his  father  and  his  mother. 
"  Get  up,  the  thief  is  caught  (he  said),  165 

.  And  for  our  Cock  we'll  now  be  paid." 

In  haste  they  got  up,  great  and  small, 
And  round  the  Lad  they  gather'd  all : 
The  Priest  himself  from  couch  of  Molly, 
His  trusty  housemaid,  forth  did  sally,  1 70 

Put  on  his  night-gown,  and  amain 
He  headed  all  the  war-like  train. 
Robin  with  pikestaff  led  the  van, 
And  to  belabour  Gib  began  ; 

The  housemaid  with  her  distaff  gall'd  him  ;        175 
The  fest  with  diff'rent  weapons  maul'd  him  ; 
The  Curate  too  him  rashly  ply'd, 
And  with  his  poker  him  annoy'd 


52  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PAKT  I. 

Till  he  almost  beat  out  his  eye. 

When  Gib  saw,  he  was  doom'd  to  die,  180 

He  in  a  rage  flew  at  the  Priest, 
And  getting  in  between  his  twist, 
He  bit  and  tore,  and  tugg'd  and  scratch'd, 
And  at  his  very  vitals  snatch'd. 
•  The  Priest  set  up  a  horrid  yell,  185 

And  down  in  a  deep  swoon  he  fell. 
The  housemaid  loud  began  to  roar, 
And  with  a  solemn  Oath  she  swore, 
She  would  have  giv'n  her  best  cap, 
To  have  prevented  this  foul  hap.  190 

With  doleful  waitings  they  all  led 
The  wounded  Curate  to  his  bed. 
Gib  watch'd  this  lucky  circumstance, 
Which  offer'd  for  his  life  a  chance, 
And  though  his  hide  was  sadly  taw'd,  195 

With  tooth  and  nail  he  bit  and  claw'd, 
Until  he  cut  the  string  in  twain. 
He  was  glad  to  come  off  again, 
And,  creeping  through  the  crevice :  "  Marry ! 
(Thought  he),  't  is  dang'rous  here  to  tarry."       200 
Without  congee  he  went  away, 
And  to  the  Court  he  bent  his  way. 

When  he  appear'd  half  blind  and  maim'd, 
The  King  in  a  great  rage  exclaim'd ; 
"  We'll  punish  that  atrocious  traitor,  205 

And  every  aider  and  abettor." 


CANTO  m.]         THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  53 

A  Crowd  of  new  Complainants  came, 
His  wrath  and  anger  to  inflame  ; 
But  Gray  got  up,  and  said  :  "  My  Lords, 
We've  had  enough  here  of  high  words;  210 

But  Reynard  must  not  be  debarr'd 
Of  his  due  right  of  being  heard. 
You  know,  the  law  is  very  nice ; 
A  Freeman  should  be  summon'd  thrice. 
If  Reynard  doth  not  then  appear,  215 

He  is  outlaw'd ;  the  case  is  clear." 

Quoth  Noble  :  "  Pray,  where  will  you  find 
A  person  in  his  sober  mind, 
Who'll  venture  on  so  vile  an  errand, 
And  carry  to  this  rogue  our  warrant  ?  "  220 

Quoth  Gray:  "  Sir,  I  myself  am  here, 
All  ready  to  go  without  fear." 
"'T  is  well,  (quoth  Noble),  you  may  go. 
The  matters  of  complaint  you  know ; 
But  have  a  care  how  you  behave  225 

In  dealing  with  the  crafty  knave." 

"  It  is  (said  Gray)  a  nice  affair ; 
But  of  success  I  don't  despair." 

Proceeding  straight  to  Rankey's  house 
He  found  him  sitting  with  his  spouse  230 

And  children.     After  civil  greeting, 
And  courteous  talk  at  their  first  meeting, 
Quoth  Gray  :  "  My  friend,  your  great  renown 
For  wit  and  conduct  is  well  known. 


54  RETNAKD    THE   FOX.  [PART  I. 

I'm  therefore  much  surpris'd  to  find  235 

How  little  you  your  int'rest  mind. 

To  summon  you;  our  sov'reign  Lord 

Already  twice  hath  sent  you  word. 

While  y'are  charg'd  with  a  heavy  crime, 

Do  not  you  think  't  is  highest  time  240 

To  come  and  plead  your  cause  at  Court, 

And  thus  to  quell  each  bad  report  ? 

What  can  you  gain  by  tarrying  ? 

If  you  are  besieg'd  by  the  King, 

You  know  well,  that  you  and  your  wife  246 

And  children  risk  your  goods  and  life  ; 

But  if  in  open  Court  you  meet 

Your  foes,  you  are  of  sly  conceit, 

And  know  so  well  to  make  your  words, 

That  you  will  captivate  the  Lords.  250 

Your  conduct  is  so  sly  and  wary, 

That  you'll  confound  your  adversary  ; 

I've  seen  you  in  the  knottiest  ca^es 

Defy  your  foes  to  show  their  faces."  255 

When  Reynard  had  with  much  attention 
Weigh'd  every  word,  which  Gray  did  mention. 
Quoth  he:  "You  're  right  in  what  you  say; 
I'll  go  with  you  at  break  of  day. 
I  hope,  my  services  are  not 

At  Court  yet  totally  forgot ;  2RO 

If  I  obtain  an  audience, 
The  King  will  pardon  my  offence ; 


CASTO  HI.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  55 

For  oft,  when  with  his  num'rous  set 

Of  Privy-CounseHors  he  met, 

In  cases  critical  and  nice  265 

He  always  follow'd  my  advice ; 

For  't  is  allowed,  in  politics 

Nothing  will  serve,  but  Reynard's  tricks. 

On  that  account  the  Courtiers  all 

Endeavour  to  contrive  my  fall ;  270 

I  know  that  there  are  more  than  ten 

Lords  of  great  note  and  pow'rful  men, 

Who  wish  to  ruin  me  ;  but  still 

Proceed  to  Court  with  you,  I  will. 

I  think  it  better  to  surrender,  275 

Than  wait,  till  I'm  condemn'd  b'attainder, 

And  bring  my  children  and  my  wife 

In  danger  too  of  loss  of  life. 

To  sue  for  peace,  is  better  far, 

Than  to  wage  an  unequal  war  "  280 

Reynard  at  parting  told  his  spouse : 
"  Pray,  mind  our  children  and  our  house. 
Before  all  let  me  recommend, 
To  little  Rankey  to  attend  ; 

The  whiskers  round  his  little  snout  285 

Right  prettily  begin  to  sprout. 
There's  Russet,  too,  a  cunning  boy, 
Whose  antic  tricks  oft  give  me  joy. 
No  sort  of  kindness  let  them  lack ; 
I'll  thank  you  for't  when  I  come  back."  290 


56  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAST  L 

So  saying,  Reynard  did  depart, 
And  left  her  with  a  broken  heart, 
Quite  destitute  and  left  alone, 
Her  sad  condition  to  bemoan. 

When  he  had  walk'd  about  a  mile,  295 

He  said :  "  My  friend,  pray  stop  awhile. 
I'm  seiz'd  with  fear  and  anxious  sorrow, 
Lest  I  shall  meet  my  death  to-morrow, 
And  many  sins  my  mind  oppress, 
Which  I'm  desirous  to  confess,  300 

And  since  no  other  Priest  is  near, 
I  wish  that  you  would  shrive  me  here." 

"  It  is  (said  Gray)  a  pious  thought ; 
But  your  confession  goes  for  nought, 
Unless,  determin'd  to  amend,  305 

You  of  your  thieving  make  an  end." 

Reynard  replied  :  "  I  know  this  well ; 
Let  me  begin  my  sins  to  tell : 
Confaeor  tibi,  Domine  Pater, 
Sum  felo,  nebulo,  peccator  —  310 

"  What  brogue  is  this  (quoth  Gray)  you  speak  in? 
It  sounds  to  me  like  a  pig's  squeaking : 
Speak  English  with  me,  if  you  please, 
That  I  may  understand  with  ease." 

"Well,  I  confess  to  you  (quoth  he)  315 

That  many  have  been  wrong'd  by  me. 
First,  I  induc'd  my  cousin  Brown 
To  go  for  honey  to  a  Clown, 


CANTO  m.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  57 

Who  with  a  broken  head  did  treat  him, 

And  almost  to  a  jelly  beat  him.  320 

To  Gib  I  promis'd  a  fat  mouse, 
And  show'd  him  to  the  Curate's  house ; 
But  being  taken  in  a  snare. 
They  of  an  eye  bereft  him  there. 

The  Cock,  too,  hath  the  greatest  reason          325 
To  charge  me  with  felonious  treason. 
In  spite  of  Dogs  and  Cloister-wall 
I  kill'd  his  children  almost  all. 

Nay,  e'en  against  the  King  and  Queen 
A  great  offender  I  have  been.  330 

Were  I  to  tell  you  how  much  wrong 
I  did  to  Growler,  't  would  be  long. 
(I  call  him  Cousin,  Sir,  but  he 
Hath  never  been  a-kin  to  me.) 
Some  years  ago,  when  I  turn'd  friar,  335 

He  begg'd  of  me  to  tell  our  Prior 
He  likewise  wish'd  t'increase  our  flock, 
And  to  put  on  a  friar's  frock, 
Which,  as  he  thought,  would  suit  him  well. 
I  sent  the  fool  to  toll  the  bell,  340 

And  with  delight  he  toll'd  so  loud, 
That  he  rais'd  all  the  village-crowd,    , 
Who  thought  the  dev'l  himself  from  hell 
Was"  come,  to  toll  their  parish-bell ; 
And  though  he  strove  to  let  them  know,  345 

That  he  was  come  to  make  his  vow, 


58  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  I. 

They  fell  with  cudgels  on  the  sot, 

And  nearly  kill'd  him  on  the  spot. 

When  he  was  to  receive  his  tonsure, 

He  begg'd  me  to  become  his  sponsor ;  350 

I  singed  his  noddle  till  the  skin 

Did  crack,  and  broil'd  his  brains  within. 

A  number  of  such  tricks  I  play'd  him  ; 
For  to  a  fish-pond  once  I  led  him, 
But  there,  instead  of  catching  trout,  355 

He  was  serv'd  with  a  cudgel-bout. 

Soon  after  this,  he  in  a  village 
The  parson's  larder  meant  to  pillage, 
Which  was  well  stor'd  with  butcher's  meat. 
I  promis'd  him  a  dainty  treat ;  360 

But  my  intent  was  to  betray  him, 
And  make  the  country-people  slay  him. 
Through  a  small  cranny  in  the  wall 
I  made  him  slip  into  the  stall, 
Where,  getting  at  a  trough  of  meat,  365 

He  so  voraciously  did  eat, 
That  he  could  not,  though  he  would  fain, 
Get  through  the  cranny  out  again. 

The  Curate  in  his  parlor  sat ; 
A  roasted  capon,  nice  and  fat,  370 

Was  plac'd  before  him,  which  to  snatch 
From  him  th'  occasion  I  did  watch, 
And  ran  off  with  in  a  hurry. 
The  priest,  all  in  a  rage  and  flurry, 


CANTO  HI.]         THE   SECOND    SUMMONS.  59 

Got  up  as  fast  as  he  was  able,  375 

And,  oversetting  chair  and  table, 

And  drink  and  victuals  on  the  floor, 

In  haste  he  ran  up  to  the  door. 

To  his  domestics  loud  he  call'd, 

And :  "  Stop  the  daring  thief,"  he  bawl'd,  380 

Who,  whilst  I  sat,  to  eat  my  meal, 

My  supper  hath  presum'd  to  steal." 

I  ran  off  with  my  prey  apace 
Till  I  came  to  the  very  place, 
Where  Growler  panted  in  his  coop ;  385 

And  there  my  booty  I  did  drop. 
The  Curate,  stooping  for  the  fowl 
PerceivM  him,  scowling  like  an  Owl. 
"  Look  here,  my  trusty  lads  (he  cried)  : 
Another  thief  I  have  descried ;  390 

In  troth,  we  should  be  made  the  scoff 
Of  all  the  Shire,  if  he  got  off." 

In  short,  he  set  up  such  a  rout, 
That  all  his  villagers  came  out 
And  charg'd  the  Wolf  with  blows  severe.  395 

The  Curate's  bacon  cost  him  dear, 
And  were  a  limner  to  depict 
The  scene,  how  he  was  taw'd  and  lick'd, 
Till  he  befoul'd  himself  with  fright, 
It  would  afford  a  curious  sight.  400 

But  when  their  fury  did  subside, 
They  flung  the  mangled  wretch  aside. 


60  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  I. 

I  wonder  how  he  could  escape, 
And  get  alive  out  of  the  scrape. 

A  twelvemonth  since,  he  came  to  call  405 

And  court  my  friendship  after  all, 
And  his  request  he  did  express, 
To  get  him  of  young  fowl  a  mess. 
I  seiz'd  th'occasion  by  the  lock, 
And  told  him,  that  a  fine  young  Cock  410 

And  six  hens  on  a  roost  I  knew, 
(But  not  a  word  of  this  was  true). 
'T  was  midnight  when  I  led  him  on, 
And  through  a  trap-door  I  anon 
To  a  high  beam  did  show  him  up.  415 

When  he  was  got  up  to  the  top, 
And  found  no  fowl,  he  call'd  to  me : 
"  Friend,  not  a  feather  do  I  see  ; 
I  fear  that  we  have  been  betray'd." 

u  No,  get  but  farther  on  (I  said)  ;  420 

You  know,  that  those,  who  want  to  gain, 
No  labor  ought  to  shun,  nor  pain  ; 
Therefore  let  not  your  faith  be  shaken  ; 
The  foremost  fowl  I've  long  since  taken." 

Whilst  he  crept  on,  I  did  slide  back,  425 

And  dropp'd  the  trap-door  with  a  clack. 
Growler  was  frightened  with  the  sound, 
And  down  he  tumbled  to  the  ground. 
The  servants,  who  slept  in  the  hall, 
Were  waken'd  by  the  sudden  fall ;  430 


CANTO  III.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  61 

They  ran  together  in  a  flurry, 

And  lighting  candles  in  a  hurry, 

They  came  to  see,  what  was  the  matter, 

And  what  had  caused  the  noise  and  clatter ; 

And  you  may  judge,  that  many  a  wound  435 

And  bruise  he  got,  when  he  was  found. 

On  Surly  likewise,  his  fair  Dame, 
Great  scandal  I  have  brought,  and  shame, 
Which  to  redress,  I  fear,  she  will 
Find  it  full  hard  and  difficile.  440 

Of  all  these  misdeeds  I  repent 
With  feelings  truly  penitent, 
And  will  do  penance  with  contrition, 
If  you'll  absolve  me  from  perdition." 

Gray  from  a  willow  cut  a  wand,  445 

And  gave  it  into  Rankey's  hand. 
"  Take  this,  and  dropping  on  your  knee, 
Strike  yourself  with  it  thrice  (quoth  he)  ; 
Then  laying  on  the  ground  the  rod, 
Across  it  skip  three  times  unshod,  450 

And  kiss  the  rod  with  resignation, 
To  witness  your  humiliation. 
This  done,  your  conscience  stands  acquitted 
Of  all  the  sins  you  have  committed." 

When  Reynard  had  his  penance  done,  455 

Gray"  thus  exhorted  him  anon : 
"  Take  care  in  all  your  future  days, 
To  leave  your  former  wicked  ways. 


62  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  I. 

Hear  mass,  keep  fast  and  holiday ; 

Bring  those  to  right,  who  go  astray ;  460 

Be  kind  to  all  the  sick  and  poor, 

And  you'll  get  in  at  heaven's  door." 

"  I  shall  (quoth  Reynard)  night  and  day 
Look  to  my  conduct,  as  you  say." 

This  bus'ness  being  brought  about,  465 

Again  together  they  set  out. 
At  some  small  distance  from  their  way 
A  Convent  of  fair  virgins  lay. 
These  pious  sisters  pray'd  and  sung 
All  day,  and  eke  the  night  along,  470 

To  save  their  souls  ;  but  to  sustain 
Their  bodies  too,  did  not  disdain. 
Cock,  hen  and  turkey,  goose  and  rabbit 
With  them  the  cloister  did  inhabit, 
Which  crafty  Reynard  knew  full  well,  475 

Who,  therefore,  to  his  friend  did  tell, 
That  passing  by  the  Cloister-wall 
'Was  not  out  of  their  way  at  all. 
The  cunning  rogue  the  poultry  ey'd, 
And  a  fat  capon  he  espied,  480 

On  whom  he  suddenly  did  rush, 
And  all  his  feathers  made  to  flush. 

Gray  said  to  him  with  angry  flout : 
"  You  sinner,  what  are  you  about  ? 
When,  after  making  your  confession,  485 

To  mend  your  life  you  made  profession, 


CANTO  HI.]          THE    SECOND    SUMMONS.  63 

Is  't  meet,  that  for  a  paltry  fowl 
You  risk  again  to  damn  your  soul  ?  " 

"  It  was  a  sad  mistake  (said  he) 
From  an  old  habit.     Pardon  me,  490 

And  henceforth  I  shall  evermore 
Be  careful,  to  do  so  no  more." 

Into  the  road  again  they  struck ; 
But  Reynard  could  not  help,  to  look 
On  the  fine  fowl  with  wistful  eye,  495 

As  long,  as  he  could  them  descry ; 
Nay,  if  one  had  cut  off  his  head, 
It  to  the  poultry  would  have  fled. 

Gray,  who  observ'd  his  greedy  yearning, 
Exclaim'd  by  way  of  past'ral  warning :  500 

"What  means  this  eager,  craving  look?" 

"My  meaning,  Sir,  you  much  mistook; 
And  thus  to  interrupt  (said  Reynard) 
My  pious  thoughts,  good  sir,  is  main  hard. 
Just  now  I  for  the  souls  was  praying  505 

Of  all  the  fowl  I  have  been  slaying, 
And  of  those  Geese  which  I  way-laid, 
When  from  the  Cloister-yard  they  stray'd." 

Gray  said  no  more ;  but  on  the  fowl 
Reynard  continued  still  to  scowl;  510 

Although  he  fear'd  his  journey's  end 
Would  not  much  good  to  him  portend. 


PART    II. 
CANTO  L  — THE   TRIAL. 


ARGUMENT. 

Reynard  his  enemies  confutes, 

And  all  their  arguments  refutes.  »   ' 

At  last,  however,  he's  convicted, 

And  death,  of  course,  to  be  inflicted. 

Leave  for  to  shrive  him,  being  got, 

He  throws  out  hints  about  a  plot; 

Of  which  full  notice  to  receive, 

King  Noble  grants  him  a  reprieve. 

WHEN  fame  had  spread  the  report, 
That  Reynard  was  arriv'd  at  Court, 
All  folks,  to  see  him,  flock'd  together. 
And  Great  and  Small  did  round  him  gather. 
Crowds  of  accusers  he  did  find,  5 

But  did  not  seem  them  much  to  mind ; 
For  with  his  nephew  he  walk'd  on 
As  proudly  as  a  Nabob's  son, 
And  without  showing  marks  of  fear, 
"When  in  the  Court  he  did  appear.  1C 

[64] 


CANTO  I.]  THE    TRIAL.  65 

Among  the  Lords  he  took  his  place, 
And,  putting  on  a  better  face, 
Than  his  bad  conscience  would  befit, 
He  thus  began  the  case  to  split : 

"  My  Liege  (he  said),  a  more  observant,          15 
Faithful,  and  trusty  humble  servant 
You  have  not  in  the  world  than  me  ; 
And  although  some  folks  there  may  be, 
Who  of  your  favor  would  bereave  me, 
You  are  too  wise  not  to  believe  me,  20 

That  all  they  said  behind  my  back, 
Was  nought  but  sheer  malicious  clack. 
They  hate  me,  Sir,  for  being  true 
And  faithfully  attach'd  to  you." 

u  Avaunt  with  your  vile  flattery !  25 

(Quoth  Noble),  't  will  not  do  with  me. 
How  you  have  kept  my,  peace  we  know, 
And  you  shall  pay  for  it,  I  vow. 
There  's  Chanticleer,  whom  you  bereft 
Of  all  his  children  by  your  theft.  30 

You  say  you  love  me  ?     'T  is  a  lie ; 
To  hurt  me'  you  would  rather  try, 
Which  by  your  late  exploits  appears ; 
Gib  lost  an  eye,  and  Brown  his  ears, 
I'll  not  waste  time  now,  to  harangue  you ;  35 

We  shall  have  proof  enough  to  hang  you." 

Am  I  (quoth  Reynard  J  to  be  blam'd, 
Because  Brown  hath  been  bruis'd  and  maim'd  ? 
5 


06  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

Who  bade  the  glutton,  without  money, 

To  go  to  Rustyfile's  for  honey  ?  .    40 

Why  did  he  suffer  him  to  maul 

His  limbs?'   Is  he  not  stout  and  tall? 

And  could  he  not  defend  his  hide 

Ere  he  skulk'd  to  the  river-side  ? 

Gib,  too,  was  by  me  well  receiv'd ;  4f> 

If  my  advice  he  had  believ'd, 
He  would  not  for  a  paltry  mouse 
Have  ventur'd  to  the  Curate's  house. 
If  for  his  gluttony  he  paid, 

The  fault  should  not  to  me  be  laid.  50 

I  know,  sir,  you  can  punish  me, 
However  guiltless  I  may  be, 
For  you  have  pow'r  and  I  am  weak ; 
But  (if  so  boldly  I  may  speak) 
You  would  not,  by  inflicting  pain  55  • 

On  th'  Innocent,  much  honor  gain. 
Let  my  accusers  now  appear ; 
To  answer  them  I'm  ready  here." 

Simple,  the  Ram,  Clerk  of  the  hall, 
For  the  complainants  now  did  call.  60 

In  came  Sir  Growler,  Brown  the  bear, 
The  wild  cat  Gib,  and  Puss  the  hare ; 
The  Ox,  the  Goat,  and  all  their  kin. 
Beau  Frisky  too  came  wheedling  in. 
From  woods  and  forests  Stag  and  Deer,  65 

Martin  and  Rabbit  did  appear. 


CAHTO  I.]  THE   TRIAL.  67 

* 

E'en  feather'd  folk's  made  no  delay, 

The  Goose,  the  Duck,  the  Rook,  and  Jay, 

While  Chanticleer,  before  them  all, 

For  vengeance  loud  began  to  call.  70 

Great  was  the  noise  and  great  the  pother ; 
One  would  be  heard  before  the  other, 
All  striving  to  be  first  that  day 
To  take  fell  Reynard's  life  away. 
Much  able  pleading  one  might  hear  75 

From  birds  and  beasts  and  fallow-deer ; 
But  Reynard  in  his  turn  no  less, 
By  cross-exam'ning  witnesses, 
By  artful  speech,  by  nice  exception, 
And  many  other  sly  conceptions,  80 

To  the  surprise  of  all  the  Court, 
Did  on  his  enemies  retort. 

He  had  well  nigh  with  his  comments 
Confuted,  all  their  arguments, 
When,  lo !  a  witness  did  appear,  85 

Who  made  at  once  the  case  so  clear, 
That  he  left  Reynard  no  defence. 
On  summing  up  the  evidence, 
Forthwith  the  Jury  with  one  breath 
Brought  in  their  verdict :  Guilty,  death.  90 

The  Judge  then,  with  a  solemn  face, 
Pronounc'd  the  sentence :  "  With  disgrace, 
You,  Reynard,  to  the  gallows  led, 
Shall  hang,  till  you  are  dead,  dead,  dead." 


68  REYNARD    THE    VOX.  [PART  IT. 

I 

Now  his  proud  heart  began  to  fail  him,  95 

And  cunning  speech  did  not  avail  him : 
For  Noble  sign'd  the  sentence  straight, 
And  certain  death  did  him  await. 

The  news  of  Reynard's  condemnation 
Fill'd  every  Kinsman  and  relation  100 

(Whose  number  at  the  Court  was  great) 
With  grief  and  sorrow  for  his  fate. 
The  monkey  Pug,  the  Badger  Gray 
(Great  Law-  and  Church-  men  till  that  day) 
And  others,  could  not  help  to  fret,  105 

That  Reynard,  a  Knight-banneret, 
Should  be  doom'd,  by  the  hangman's  noose 
His  honor  and  his  life  to  lose ; 
They  took  his  case  so  much  to  heart; 
That  from  the  Court  they  did  depart.  1 !  0 

To  find  that  many  a  valiaut  Squire 
And  trusty  Yeoman  did  retire, 
Caus'd  to  King  Noble  much  regret ; 
He  told  his  Courtiers  in  a  pet : 
"  Though  Reynard  is  a  rogue  ;  't  is  true,  115 

That  his  friends  still  deserve  their  due  ; 
A  set  of  able  hands  they  are, 
Whom  we  in  Council  ill  can  spare." 

Meantime  the  Wolf  and  his  relations 
To  hang  the  Fox  made  preparations,  120 

Quoth  Gib  to  Growler :  "  Well  you  may 
Your  thirst  for  vengeance  now  allay. 


CANTO  I.]  THE   TRIAL.  69 

Remember  how  he  did  with  joy 

Assist,  your  brethren  to  destroy, 

When  those,  who  hang'd  them,  he  did  join;       125 

Pay  him  now  in  his  own  false  coin. 

You  too,  friend  Brown,  were  made  to  smart, 

When  brought  by  him  to  th'horiey-mart. 

Take  your  revenge  now,  while  you  may, 

And  do  ndt  let  him  steal  away."  130 

Quoth  Growler :  "  Without  loitering 
Get  me  a  rope,  and  he  shall  swing." 

Reynard  said  nothing,  while  they  spoke. 
At  last  his  silence  thus  he  broke : 
"  You  all  are  mighty  fond  of  words.  135 

Instead  of  talking  about  cords, 
If  you  thirst  for  revenge,  depend  on't 
The  best  way  is,  to  make  an  end  on't. 
Gib,  I  am  sure,  hath  not  forgot 
Where  a  good  rope  is  to  be  got,  140 

If  he'll  think  of  the  Curate's  barn. 
You,  Brown  and  Growler,  think  you'll  earn 
Much  honor  and  great  consolation 
By  bringing  shame  on  your  relation." 

The  King  and  Queen  with  all  their  train        145 
Meanwhile  appear'd  upon  the  plain, 
Where  gaping  crowds  were  met,  to  see 
His  Exit  on  the  fatal  tree. 

Growler  bade  all  his  Friends  stand  fast, 
And  watch  the  culprit  to  the  last.  150 


70  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  U. 

\ 

He  therefore  call'd  out  to  his  wife : 
"  Hold  him  fast,  if  you  love  your  life  ; 
For  if  the  rogue  could  get  away, 
He'd  ruin  all  of  us  one  day." 
To  Brown  he  did  enjoin  the  same,  155 

While  Gib,  who  with  a  ladder  came, 
Climb'd  in  a  trice  up  to  the  top, 
With  rope  in  hand,  to  tuck  him  up.         » 
When  Brown  and  Surly  held  him  fast, 
Reynard  saw,  he  must  breathe  his  last ;  1 60 

But  he  could  not  forbear  to  scoff. 
He  said :  "  You  never  will  leave  off 
Helping  to  death  your  near  relation, 
Though  you  should  have  commiseration, 
And  not  bring  me  into  disgrace.  165 

Nay,  I  could  almost  ask  for  grace  ; 
But  Growler  hates  me  to  the  last. 
He  bids  his  wife,  to  hold  me'  fast, 
Who,  if  old  friendship  she  would  mind. 
Would  surely  be  to  me  more  kind.  170 

But  since  with  me  't  is  so  far  gone, 
I  wish,  the  whole  affair  was  done. 
My  father  died  a  violent  death ; 
But  in  a  trice  he  spent  his  breath, 
And  had  not  such  a  copious  train,  175 

To  view  his  agony  and  pain. 
Make  haste,  and  let  me  take  the  swing ; 
Shame  on  you  for  your  loitering ! " 


CANTO  I.]  THE   TRIAL.  71 

"  Hear,  how  the  caitiff  rails,  (quoth  Brown). 
We'll  take  the  daring  huffer  down."  1 180 

Reynard,  howe'er,  thought  in  his  mind : 
"  I'll  not  despair,  some  means  to  find, 
From  an  untimely  death  t'escape, 
And  bring  my  foes  into  the  scrape. 
The  King  ('t  is  true)  is  not  my  friend  ;  185 

And  many,  whom  I  did  offend, 
Are  wishing  for  my  death ;  but  still, 
Be  they  as  clever,  as  they  will, 
I  shall  contrive  to  overreach 

Them  all,  by  dint  of  subtle  speech,  190 

And  if  a  hearing  I  can  gain, 
My  pardon  I  hope  to  obtain." 
Much  grief  and  sorrow  he  express'd, 
And  thus  the  gaping  crowd  address'd : 
u  Having  the  Lord's  commands  contemn'd,          195 
To  death  I  justly  am  condemn'd. 
I  meet  my  death  with  heart  contrite, 
And  wish  but  for  a  short  respite, 
That  I  my  conscience  may  appease, 
Confess  my  sins,  and  die  with  ease,  200 

Because  such  misdeeds  I  committed, 
That,  if  to  tell  them  I  omitted, 
The  Innocent  in  future  times 
Might  chance  to  suffer  for  my  crimes. 
For  this  last  mercy  at  death's  door  205 

I  wish  you  would  the  King  implore." 


72  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAST  II. 

Those,  who  his  canting  speech  did  hear 
To  pity  him  could  not  forbear,  .  •• 

And  thinking  it  a  trifling  thing, 
They  interceded  with  the  King,  210 

Who  their  request  benignly  granted. 

Reynard,  obtaining  what  he  wanted, 
His  spirits  quickly  rose  again 
And  speaking  in  his  whining  strain, 

"  Spirit  us  Domini  be  with  me  !  21  a 

(He  said) ;  for  those,  whom  here  I  see, 
Both  poor  and  rich,  both  great  and  small, 
Too  frequently  I've  injured  all. 
Since  I  was  wean'd  from  mother's  breast, 
The  craft  of  thieving  I  profess'd.  220 

With  lambs  and  Kids  I  used  to  play, 
Because  I  found  their  bleats  so  gay  ; 
But  when  their  blood  I  once  had  lapt, 
I  often  at  their  throats  have  snapt, 
And  growing  by  degrees  more  daring,  22") 

Nor  fowl,  nor  beast  have  I  been  sparing ; 
Nay  frequently  I  did  kill  more, 
Than  I  was  able  to  devour. 

Growler  likewise,  in  course  of  time, 
Inur'd  me  in  the  art  sublime  230 

Of  wholesale-theft  and  robbery. 
W7e  were  together  constantly ; 
He  stole  the  great,  and  I  the  small, 
And  we  were  to  go  snacks  in  all ; 


CANTO  I.]  THE    TRIAL.  73 

But  when  he  caught  a  Calf,  or  Kid,  235 

Or  something  else,  as  nice  and  tid, 

I  seldom  got  my  share  from  him ; 

For  straight  at  me  with  visage  grim 

He  snarl'd  and  frighten'd  me  away, 

And  to  himself  he  kept  his  prey,  240 

Nay,  when  a  bullock,  or  a  horse 

We  chanc'd  to  kill,  it  was  still  worse ; 

For  then  his  wife  and  children  came, 

Who  each  of  them  a  share  did  claim, 

And  I  was  left  to  vex  and  fret,  245 

Ere  I  a  bone  from  them  could  get. 

A  lucky  thing  it  was  indeed, 
That  I  stood  not  of  them  in  need, 
Because  the  treasure  I  possess, 
From  want  secur'd  me  and  distress.  250 

"  What  treasure  (ask'd  the  King)  was  this  ?  " 

"  My  Liege,  I'll  tell  you  what  it  is, 
(Quoth  Reynard)  ;  for  what  treasure  can 
Yield  comfort  to  a  dying  man  ? 
Ten  wagons  would  not,  I  dare  say,  255 

Suffice,  to  carry  them  away ; 
But  howsoever  great  they  be, 
I  can  not  take  them  now  with  me. 
I  stole  these  treasures  with  my  wife ; 
By  stealing  them,  we  sav'd  your  life  ;  260 

For  this  great  hoard  was  made  by  those, 
Who  would  against  your  life  have  rose, 


74  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  H. 

Now  you  are  safe,  while  I  must  smart, 
Because  it  broke  my  father's  heart." 

The  Queen  was  very  much  astonish'd,  265 

And  earnestly  she  him  admonish'd. 
"  Reynard,  (she  said),  I  conjure  you, 
In  your  confession  to  be  true, 
And  as  you  wish  to  save  your  soul, 
Minutely  to  declare  the  whole,  270 

Which  on  these  matters  can  throw  light." 

The  King  straight  granted  a  respite  ; 
For  he  wish'd  very  much,  to  learn 
How  far  these  things  him  might  concern. 

His  matters  now  in  better  train,  275 

Reynard  began  to  breathe  again ; 
His  foes  were  forc'd  to  let  him  loose 
From  vile  embrace  of  fatal  noose. 
The  King  and  Queen  took  him  apart, 
And  he  made  use  of  all  his  art,  280 

Their  good  opinion  to  regain, 
And  get  out  of  the  scrape  again. 
With  matchless  art  his  tale  he  told, 
And  gave  his  foes  the  bag  to  hold. 

The  Queen  exhorted  him  again,  285 

All  matters  fully  to  explain. 

Quoth  he  :  "  I'm  doom'd  to  die,  you  know. 
Why  should  I  charge  my  conscience  now 
With  lies,  and  foul  prevarication, 
And  bring  my  soul  into  damnation  ?  290 


CASTO  I.]  THE*  TRIAL.  75 

I'm  loth,  to  speak  ill  of  my  Kin ; 
But  rather,  than  commit  a  sin 
And  go  with  lie  in  mouth  to  hell, 
The  truth,  and  all  the  truth  I'll  tell." 

"  A  thief  and  murd'rer  (quoth  the  King)       295 
Will  tell  a  lie,  and  take  the  swing." 

"  Dread  sov'reign,  your  reproach  is  hard 
For  a  poor  dying  man  (said  Reynard). 
That  I've  a  sinner  been  before, 
I  have  great  reason  to  deplore  ;  300 

But  being  now  condemn'd  to  die, 
What  would  it  serve,  to  tell  a  lie  ?  " 

While  thus  with  counterfeited  fear 
He  spoke,  the  Queen  did  interfere. 
"  Grant  him  this  mercy,  for  may  be  305 

It  will  prevent  mischief,  (said  she). 
Bid  all  the  noisy  crowd  be  still, 
And  let  him  speak  now  what  he  will." 


CANTO  II.  — THE   PARDON. 


ARGUMENT. 

The  crafty  Fox  can  not  refrain 
From  fibs,  his  Kinsmen  to  arraign. 
Vast  treasures  he  pretends  to  show 
At  Quarrelpit  and  Hufferslow. 
When  pardon'd  he  by  dint  of  lies 
For  leave  to  go  to  Rome  applies. 
The  King  commends  his  resolution 
To  go,  and  beg  for  absolution. 

AS  soon  as  silence  was  obtain'd 
Much  Grief  and  sorrow  Reynard  feign'd, 
That  his  own  Kin  he  durst  not  spare, 
A  shocking  treason  to  declare  ; 
Nor  did  the  wicked  rogue  disdain,  5 

His  father  in  the  grave  t'arraign ; 
Nay,  his  best  friend,  the  badger  Gray, 
Who  took  his  part  that  very  day, 
He  did  not  scruple  to  accuse :       • 
For  while  his  friends  he  did  abuse,  10 

[76] 


CANTO  II-l  THE   PARDON.  77 

To  hurt  his  fetes,  the  wily  thief 
The  sooner  hop'd  to  gain  belief. 

He  said :  "  My  father  heretofore 
A  hidden  treasure  did  explore, 
Which  was  left  by  a  Saxon  King,  15 

(I  think  't  was  Edgar  Atheling).  >   . 

When  all  at  once  he  got  such  riches, 
His  head  was  fill'd  with  proud  caprices, 
And  he  assum'd  a  haughty  air 
With  all  those,  who  about  him  were.  20 

By  Gib  he  sent  up  word  to  Brown, 
Straight  from  the  Highlands  to  come  down, 
If  Be  wish'd  to  become  our  King. 
Brown,  well  pleased  with  his  offering, 
Made  as  much  haste,  as  e'er  he  could,  25 

To  meet  my  father  in  a  Wood. 
To  Growler  they  sent  word  that  day, 
And  to  our  learned  cousin  Gray. 
Gib  was  the  fifth,  who  join'd  the  set, 
And  in  the  dark  of  night  they  met.  30 

There,  at  the  devil's  instigation 
They  enter'd  into  conjuration. 
To  murder  You  they  all  did  swear 
And  for  their  King  to  choose  the  bear." 
My  father  hinted  his  intent.  35 

To  purchase  votes  in  Parliament, 
And  with  his  gold  to  silence  those, ' 
Who  might  their  trait'rous  plan  oppose. 


78  REYNARD    THE    POX.  [PABT  H. 

Some  notice  of  their  plot  one  day     ', 

I  got  by  chance.     My  nephew  Gray,  40 

Too  freely  having  drank  his  glass, 

Told  his  wife  what  would  come  to  pass ; 

But  bade  her,  as  she  lov'd  her  life, 

Not  to  tell  .tales.     But  soon  my  wife 

Did  pump  her  out,  and  told  me  all ;  45 

And  by  some  tokens  I  withal 

Was  soon  convinc'd,  it  was  too  true, 

That  plots  were  making  against  You. 

This  did  remind  me  of  the  Frogs, 

Who  peaceably  liv'd  in  their  bogs ;  50 

But  while  they  had  a  gentle  King, 

They  could  not  leave  off  murmuring, 

And  praying  Jove,  to  send  them  down 

A  King,  more  worthy  of  the  Crown. 

He  sent  the  Stork,  who  much  annoys  them,         55 

And  daily  murders  and  destroys  them. 

Now  they  complain,  and  sore  repent; 

But  Jove  is  deaf  to  their  complaint. 

I  was  afraid,  that  after  all 

No  better  lot  would  us  befall ;  60 

And  most  for  Your  sake  I  did  fret, 
Though  little  thanks  I'm  like  to  get. 
My  Liege,  I  knew  your  gentle  mood ; 
You  are  as  pow'rful,  as  Y'are  good ; 
On  th'other  hand  I  knew  that  Brown  65 

Was  a  proud,  craving,  blust'ring  Clown ; 


CANTO  H.]  THE  PARDON.  /  9 

It  therefore  did  occur  to  me, 

How  ruinous  such  change  would  be, 

For  't  is  a  cruel,  cutting  thing, 

When  a  proud  Knave  is  made  a  King ;  70 

I  therefore  studied  night  and  day, 

A  counterplot  for  them  to  lay. 

Henceforth  I  ponder'd  on  a  measure, 
To  rob  my  father  of  his  treasure, 
In  order  to  prevent  all  strife,  75 

And  save  your  crown  and  precious  life. 
Wherever  my  old  wicked  Sire 
Did  stroll  about,  through  mud  and  mire, 
Through  heat  and  frost,  with  all  my  might 
I  at  his  heels  was  day  and  night.  80 

One  day,  spent  with  fatigue  and  sorrow, 
While  I  was  laying  in  a  burrow, 
I  saw  my  father,  who  did  creep 
Out  of  a  cavern,  dark  and  deep.  - 

He  look'd  about  with  cautious  fear,  85 

But  did  not  see  that  I  was  near, 
When,  thinking  he  was  quite  alone, 
The  cleft  he  cover'd  with  a  stone ; 
His  footsteps  too  he  did  not  fail 
To  smoothe  again  with  snout  and  tail.  90 

Old  slyboots  was  no  sooner  gone, 
Than  I  did  fall  to  work  anon, 
Convinc'd  that  this  must  be  the  place, 
Where  all  his  riches  I  should  trace ; 


80  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

And  sure,  when  I  slipt  in,  I  found  95 

Of  pure  gold  many  a  thousand-pound. 

Not  one  here  present  is  so  old, 

As  to  have  seen  such  heaps  of  gold 

And  precious  stones.     I  did  not  tarry 

For  carts  ;  my  wife  help'd  me  to  carry,  100 

Until  the  whole  jof  it  we  got 

In  safety  to  a  distant  spot. 

My  father  to  the  Continent 
For  mercenary  troops  was  sent; 
For  you  must  know,  brave  men  were  sold          105 
Like  cattle,  in  those  times,  for  gold. 
Whilst  he  went  on  this  toilsome  job, 
He  little  thought,  that  thieves  would  rob 
What  of  his  bus'ness  was  the  nerve  ; 
But  if  he  could  have  made  it  serve  1 10 

To  ease  him  in  his  dying-stound, 
He  not  a  farthing  would  have  found. 

When,  after  trudging  up  and  down 
From  land  to  land,  from  town  to  town, 
Between  the  Weser  and  the  Mayne,  115 

My  father  did  return  again 
And  join'd  the  Leaders  of  the  plot, 
He  said :  that  soldiers  he  had  got, 
But  that  much  pain  to  him  it  cost, 
And  sufFrings  great  from  heat  and  frost,  120 

Whilst  huntsmen  with  their  yelping  pack 
Had  often  made  his  sward  to  crack. 


CAWTO  IT]  THE    PARDON.  81 

He  show'd  them  letters,  which  he  brought, 

With  promises  and  offers  fraught 

From  Growler's  friends,  who  would  not  fail       1 25 

To  fight  for  him  with  tooth  and  nail, 

In  concert  with  the  cats  and  bears, 

Ready  t'engage  in  his  affairs, 

And  to  assist  their  Kinsman  Brown ; 

If  three  months  wages  were  paid  down.  130 

(But  you  may  thank  your  lucky  star, 

That  I  their  deep-laid  plots  did  mar.) 

When  all  these  matters  were  concerted, 
My  father  to  his  hoard  reverted  ; 
But  what  above,  what  under  ground,  135 

The  more  he  sought,  the  less  he  found. 
He  fill'd  Avith  loud  laments  the  air, 
And  hang'd  himself  from  mere  despair. 

Thanks  to  my  cunning,  at  one  blow 
I  all  their  schemes  did  overthrow  ;  1 40 

Then  pray,  consider  my  disgrace  ; 
Whilst  Brown  stands  high  in  your  good  grace, 
And  Growler  too,  and  their  abettors, 
Poor  Reynard  here  stands  bound  in  fetters. 
Sir,  to  give  up  my  Sire,  was  hard,  145 

But  harder,  to  get  such  reward." 

The  King  and  Queen,  who  both  to  fish 
In  troubled  water  much  did  wish, 
Took  him  aside,  and  he  was  bid 
To  tell  them  where  his  gold  was  hid.  150 

6 


82  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

Quoth  he :  "  What  would  it  help  me  now, 
My  treasures  to  the  King  to  show, 
Who  wants  to  hang  me,  and  believes 
What  traitors  tell  of  me  and  thieves  ?  " 

"  No,  (said  the  Queen),  pray,  cease  your  care,  155 
I'm  sure,  the  King  your  life  will  spare, 
And  if  you  promise  to  be  good, 
He  will  forgive,  and  change  his  mood, 
And  will  restore  to  you  his  Grace." 

"If  this  (said  Reynard)  be  the  case,  1GO 

That  I  my  pardou  shall  obtain 
And  win  the  King's  good  Grace  again, 
With  greater  riches  I  shall  store  him, 
Than  any  King  possess'd  before  him." 

"  Do  not  believe  him,  (said  the  King),  165 

'T  is  nought,  but  wicked  bantering, 
He  is  a  lying,  scoffing  thief, 
Who  never  did  deserve  belief." 

"  I  grant,  he  hath  been  so  before 
(Said  she)  ;  but  he  will  lie  no  more ;  1 70 

For  when  this  plot  he  did  reveal, 
His  father's  name  he  might  conceal, 
As  well  as  that  of  his  friend  Gray, 
If  he  had  wish'd,  the  blame  to  lay 
On  those  alone,  by  whom  he's  hated."  175 

The  King,  whose  anger  was  abated, 
Replied  :  "  Although  the  case  is  nice, 
I  will  for  once  take  your  advice. 


CANTO  H.]  THE    PARDON. 

His  fine  and  trespass  I'll  forgive  him, 

And  on  your  word  I  will  believe  him.  180 

But  on  my  Crown  and  life  I  swear, 

If  he  takes  not  the  greatest  care 

How  he  behaves  in  future  times, 

He  shall  pay  doubly  for  his  crimes, 

And  all  his  kin,  as  well  as  he,  185 

Shall  suffer  till  the  tenth  degree." 

Reynard  was  highly  glad,  to  find 
The  King  so  soon  had  chang'd  his  mind. 
"  I  should  act  foolishly,  My  Lord, 
(Said  he)  if  I  but  spoke  one  word,  190 

Which  I  could  not  by  act  and  deed 
Make  good,  as  soon  as  there  is  need." 

The  King,  who  thought  that  he  spoke  true, 
Forgave  him,  and  his  father  too ; 
And  thus  from  a  most  dang'rous  scrape  195 

He  through  his  cunning  did  escape. 

"  God  save  Your  Majesty  !  (said  he). 
To  serve  You  well,  my  aim  shall  be, 
As  well  as  your  most  gracious  Consort, 
Who  hath  procur'd  me  so  much  comfort ;  200 

And  therefore  none  with  greater  pleasure 
I  would  invest  with  my  vast  treasure. 
You  shall  possess  it  as  entire, 
As  I  have  stole  it  from  my  Sire, 
And  I  will  now,  as  I  am  bid,  205 

Tell  you  the  place,  where  it  is  hid : 


84  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  II. 

• 

JFarJnJhe  North,  Sir,  please  to  know, 

A  -desert  lies,  call'd  Hufferslow. 

None  but  the  Rook,  the  Owl  and  Jay 

Inhabit  there.     Nor  beasts  of  prey,  210 

Nor  human-kind,  did  ever  trace 

The  way  to  this  wild,  dreary  place. 

A  miry  swamp,  hight  Quarrelpit, 

Is  in  the  very  midst  of  it. 

For  further  token  please  t'  observe,  215 

(That  from  your  path  you  may  not  swerve ; 

For  to  yourself  I  would  advise 

To  set  out  on  this  enterprise, 

And  not  to  trust  to  messengers 

For  managing  such  nice  affairs.)  220 

Just  after  you  pass  Quarrelpit, 

A  little  to  the  left  of  it 

You  will  find  two  young  lofty  pines ; 

Beneath  them  I  have  sunk  the  mines, 

Where  I  my  treasure  hoarded  up.  225 

There  many  a  bracelet,  ring  and  cup 

You'll  find,  as  well  as  ^.th'ling's  crown, 

Which  was  to  have  been  worn  by  Brown, 

If  he  his  wicked  will  had  got, 

And  I  had  not  blown  up  his  plot.  230 

You'll  eke  see  many  jewels  there 

Of  precious  stones  and  Goldsmith's  ware, 

Worth  many  thousand  pounds  to  you. 

My  Liege,  when  all  these  things  you  view, 


CAMTO  D.]  THE   PARDON.  85 

They  will  rejoice  your  very  heart.  2.'}  5 

"  Reynard  (you'll  say),  indeed  thou  art 
As  shrewd  and  true,  as  Fox  can  be, 
Hoarding  such  treasures  up  for  me." 

"  Come  with  us  then,  and  show  the  way, 
(Said  Noble),  and  full  well  you  may,  2-10 

Unless  this  story,  with  intent 
To  trick  and  cheat  us,  you  invent. 
We've  read  in  our  Geography 
Of  Brentford,  Staines  and  Coventry ; 
But  Quarrelpit  and  Hufferslow  245 

Are  names  of  which  we  nothing  know." 

"  My  Liege  (quoth  Reynard),  your  surmise v 
Fills  me,  indeed,  with  much  surprise. 
Think  not,  that  to  some  outland  place 
I'd  send  you  on  a  wild-goose  chase.  250 

No  Sir,  the  spot  is  near  at  hand, 
Not  far  beyond  Northumberland." 

ForTEwTth  for  Pussey  Reynard  call'd 
Who  came  all  trembling  and  appall'd. 
"  Nay,  Puss  (quoth  he),  you  need  not  fear ;        255 
Our  gracious  King  doth  want  you  here. 
Confirm  to  him  (what  well  you  know), 
That  Quarrelpit  and  Hufferslow 
Are  situate  in  brakes  and  fens, 
About  a  hundred  miles  from  hence."  260 

"Why,  yes,  (quoth  Puss),  for  ought  I  know, 
Near  Quarrelpit  lies  Hufferslow, 


86  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

Where  humpback'd  Simon  with  his  Croney 
Liv'd  in  the  woods,  and  coin'd  base  money. 
I  oft  was  there  in  great  distress,  265 

When  hunger,  frost  and  hounds  did  press  — 

"  Enough  !  (said  Reynard)  you  may  go  ; 
The  King  wants  nothing  more  to  know." 

"  'T  is  well,  (quoth  Noble),  be  content ; 
A  word  in  haste  is  not  ill  meant ;  270 

Then  come  away  with  us,  and  show 
The  nearest  way  tq  HufferslowT7""^ 

I  would  (said  Reynard)  wish  t'obey ; 
But  for  my  sins  I  here  must  stay. 
You  would  not  take  with  you  a  man,  275 

On  whom  the  Pope  pronounc'd  his  ban. 
Once,  at  the  devil's  instigation, 
Growler  express'd  an  inclination 
To  slip  into  a  friar's  gown  ; 

But  after  they  had  shav'd  his  crown,  280 

The  glutton  was  not  satisfied 
When  six  lay-brothers  him  supplied 
With  meat  and  drink  ;  but  he  again 
Of  thirst  and  hunger  would  complain. 
I  thought  he  was  in  great  dismay,  285 

And  help'd  the  wretch  to  run  away. 
For  this  the  Pope  his  ban  inflicted, 
And  to  this  hour  I'm  interdicted. 
With  your  permission  I  would  now 
To  Rome  for  pardon  wish  to  go.  290 


CANTO  II.]  THE  PARDON.  87 

From  thence,  if  I  your  leave  may  crave, 

I'll  wander  to  the  holy  grave, 

And  plenary  indulgence  bring, 

Both  for  myself  and  for  my  King. 

Were  I  with  you  to  go  away,  295 

I'm  sure,  malicious  tongues  would  say : 

"  A  fine  companion  for  a  King, 

This  fox,  who  just  escap'd  the  string, 

And  who  is  interdicted  too  !  " 

No,  no,  my  Liege,  't  will  never  do."  300 

"  If  this  (said  Noble)  is  the  case, 
It  surely  would  be  a  disgrace, 
To  take  you  with  me,  and  I  must 
Some  other  with  this  job  intrust. 
I  will  not  mar  a  good  intent,  305 

And  since  to  Rome  your  course  is  bent,  k 
I  hope  your  pilgrimage  will  mend  you. 
Heav'ns  blessing  on  the  way  attend  you  !  "  ' 


CANTO  in.  — THE   RELAPSE. 


ARGUMENT. 

Reynard  makes  the  wolves  their  shoes, 
And  Brown  part  of  his  fur-coat  lose. 
The  Ram  gives  him  his  benison 
And  puts  the  rogue  his  Knapsack  on. 
He  kills  poor  Puss,  and  with  the  Ram 
Sends  to  the  King  her  head  for  sham. 
The  guiltless  Ram  and  all  his  kin 
Are  made  to  pay  for  Rankey's  sin. 

KING  Noble,  mounted  on  a  stone, 
Which  serv'd  him  for  a  royal  Throne, 
Made  every  bird  and  beast  around 
Perch  on  trees,  or  squat  on  the  ground, 
Save  Reynard,  who  with  courtly  grace  5 

Behind  the  Queen's  seat  took  his  place ; 
And  with  a  voice  distinct  and  loud 
He  thus  harangued  the  num'rous  crowd : 
"  Be't  known  to  all  assembled  here, 
To  Bird  and  Beast,  to  Fowl  and  Deer,  10 

[88] 


CASTO  HI.]  THE    RELAPSE.  89 

To  poor  and  rich,  to  great  and  small, 

And  to  our  loyal  subjects  all, 

That  by  our  sovereign  pow'r  and  sway 

We  our  free  pardon  grant  to-day 

To  Reynard,  whom  the  law  did  sentence  15 

To  death  ;  but  having  show'd  repentance, 

And  faithfully  disclos'd  a  thing 

Of  great  importance  to  his  King, 

We,  for  the  sake  of  this  confession, 

And  of  our  Consort's  intercession,  20 

All  punishment  and  fine  forgive  him, 

And  at  our  Court  again  receive  him. 

Besides,  it  is  our  royal  will, 

That  all  of  you  respect  him  still, 

Himself,  his  children  and  his  wife,  25 

And  as  you  love  your  limbs  and  life, 

Let  every  one  of  you  refrain, 

Of  past  offences  to  complain. 

He  hath  done  wrong,  but  he'll  repent. 

To  go  to  Rome  is  his  intent,  30 

And  on  his  pilgrimage  to-morrow 

He  will  set  out  with  pious  sorrow. 

From  Rome  he'll  go,  with  staff  in  hand, 

A  Palmer,  to  the  holy  land, 

And  won't  return  to  us  again,  35 

Till  full  indulgence  he  obtain." 

Gib  now  cried  out :  "  W  are  all  forlorn 
I  wish,  I  never  had  been  born. 


90  REYNARD    THE   POX.  [PAST  H. 

If  into  favour  he  again 

Hath  stole,  the  rogue  with  might  and  main          40 

Will  strive  to  ruin  us  all  three, 

Growler  as  well,  as  Brown  and  me. 

Of  one  eye  he  did  last  bereave  me ; 

I  fear,  the  other  he  won't  leave  me." 

Growler  said :  "  Good  advice  is  dear."  45 

"  So  't  is  indeed,  (said  Brown)  I  fear." 

With  Grief  and  terror  much  oppress'd 
These  two  the  King  and  Queen  address'd, 
And  made  of  Reynard  strange  report. 

King  Noble  sternly  cut  them  short,  50 

"  Were  not  you  plainly  told  by  me, 
That  I  have  pardon'd  him  ?  "  said  he  ; 
And  forthwith,  in  an  angry  mind 
He  order'd  them  to  be  confm'd ; 
For  Reynard's  slandrous  information  55 

Had  drawn  on  them  his  indignation. 

The  rogue,  perceiving  that  his  art 
Serv'd  him  so  well,  pluck'd  up  a  heart, 
And  fell  designs  he  plann'd 'amain, 
To  give  his  enemies  new  pain.  .       60 

"  Most  kind  and  gracious  Queen  (quoth  he), 
Your  pilgrim  I  shall  shortly  be ; 
But  for  my  long  and  toilsome  jaunt 
I  shall  of  shoes  be  much  in  want ; 
A  Knapsack  too  would  be  of  use,  65 

All  which  I  hope  you'll  not  refuse. 


CANTO  HI.]  THE    RELAPSE.  91 

To  Growler,  who  sits  now  so  warm, 

To  lend  his  gloves  can  do  no  harm. 

His  wife  is  not  much  wont  to  roam ; 

She  without  shoes  can  sit  at  home.  70 

Brown  too  could  for  a  travelling-sack 

Spare  me  some  leather  from  his  back," 

"  Of  all  those  things  you  shan't  be  stinted 
(Said  she)  ;  We'll  get  them,  as  you  hinted, 
Although  it  were  to  cost  the  life  75 

Of  Brown,  and  Growler  and  his  wife." 

"  Gramercy,  you  are  very  kind 
(Said  he),  and  with  a  grateful  jnind 
I  shall  bring  home  (as  't  is  your  due) 
_JPalms  and  indulgences  to  you."     v s  80 

Thus  the  false  palmer  made  a  shift, 
To  lend  his  foes  a  deadly  lift. 
Growler  was  forc'd,  his  gloves  to  lose, 
And  Surly  her  best  pair  of  shoes ; 
They  were  oblig'd  to  lend  their  paws,  85 

To  have  them  stript  of  skin  and  claws. 
Poor  Brown  did  no  ways  better  fare, 
Whose  back  was  of  its  fur  laid  bare, 
The  wily  traitor  to  provide 

With  a  tight  Knapsack  from  his  hide.  90 

You  never  saw  more  wretched  creatures 

Rankey  with  pity-mocking  features 
Did  Surly  in  her  dumps  approach. 
"  I  hope,  you'll  think  it  no  reproach 


92  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  n. 

(Quoth  he),  that  I  your  shoes  shall  wear,  95 

A  pledge,  to  me  extremely  dear, 

Although,  forgetting  old  affection, 

You  lately  caus'd  me  much  affliction. 

'T  is  true,  I  had  some  little  share 

In  thus  arranging  the  affair;  100 

(For  who,  when  fortune  him  enables, 

Would  not  turn  on  his  foes  the  tables  ?) 

But  as  I'm  going  now  to  Rome, 

Be  sure,  that  on  my  coming  home 

You  shall  be  welcome  to  a  share  105 

Of  all  the  pardons  I  can  spare." 

Surly,  was  laying  in  great  pain 
And  was  scarce  able  to  complain. 
At  last  with  a  deep  sigh  she  said : 
"  Oh,  Reynard!  One  day  you'll  be  paid  110 

For  having  now  your  wicked  will." 

Growler  and  Brown  did  both  lie  still 
And  chew'd  the  Cud  in  dumb  despair, 
When  Reynard  with  a  jeering  air 
Rail'd  at  them,  as  he  went  along,  115 

And  let  them  feel  his  cutting  tongue. 
If  Gib  had  not  in  time  sheer'd  off, 
He  likewise  would  have  felt  his  scoff. 

Next  morning  at  first  dawn  of  day 
Reynard  came  forth  in  full  array ;  1 20 

He  greas'd  his  shoes,  and  put  them  on, 
And  to  the  King  he  went  anon. 


CAHTO  m.J  THE  RELAPSE.  93 

"  My  Liege  (he  said),  your  servant  now 

Is  going  to  fulfil  his  vow ; 

But  ere  my  journey*!  begin,  125 

Pray,  let  your  Chaplain  be  call'd  in, 

That  I,  before  I  take  my  leave, 

His  benison  may  first  receive." 

The  Ram,  a  Clerk  of  mighty  merit, 
Well  vers'd  in  matters  of  the  spirit,  1 30 

Was  Chaplain  ;   Simple  was  his  name  ; 
The  King  sent  for  him,  and  he  came. 
"  Here's  Reynard  (said  the  King)  ;  come,  read 
Some  prayers  for  him  with  due  speed ; 
With  staff  and  Knapsack,  and  the  rest  135 

Of  Palmer's  garb  him  straight  invest ; 
For  on  a  journey  he's  to  go." 

"  My  Liege,  (quoth  Simple)  don't  you  know 
That  Reynard  hath  been  interdicted  ? 
Hard  punishment  would  be  inflicted  140 

On  me,  if  Bishop  Surface  knew 
That  such  a  thing  I  dared  to  do. 
But  if  th'affair  you  so  could  manage, 
That  I  might  come  off  without  damage 
From  him  and  Ruddyface,  our  Dean  —  "  145 

"  Pray,  (said  the  King),  what  do  you  mean? 
D'ye  think  I  care  a  whit  for  you, 
Or  for  your  Bishop  and  his  crew  ? 
Read,  or  read  not,  as  you  think  fit ; 
I  do  not  care  a  straw  for  it.  150 


94  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAHT  II. 

You  hear,  to  Rome  he  goes  away ; 
If  you  will  hinder  him,  you  may." 

Poor  Simple  with  submissive  look 
PulFd  out  in  haste  his  prayer-book, 
And  over  Rankey  read  a  lesson,  1 55 

Which  he  thought  neither  more,  nor  less  on, 
Than  if 't  had  been  some  tale,  or  song, 
(As  we,  perhaps, 'may  see  ere  long). 

When  he  receiv'd  his  benison, 
And  had  his  pilgrim's-dress  put  on,  160 

Reynard,  with  palmer-staff  in  hand, 
Feign'd  to  go  to  the  holy  land ; 
Though  he  had  no  more  mind  for  it, 
Than  for  a  jaunt  to  Quarrelpit. 
The  cunning  hypocrite  did  now  165 

His  tears  profusely  cause  to  flow, 
As  if  his  heart  with  pain  was  rent ; 
And  though  his  mind  was  only  bent 
On  hurting  all  those,  who  were  there, 
Just  as  he  used  the  Wolf  and  Bear,  170 

He  did  intreat  them  much,  to  pray 
To  heav'n  for  blessing  on  his  way 
And  for  his  safe  return.     This  done, 
He  was  in  great  haste,  to  be  gone ; 
For  still  his  heart  was  in  a  flurry.  175 

"  Reynard  (said  Noble),  I  am  sorry  ^ 
To  see  you  go  in  such  a  haste." 
"  No,  Sir,  I  have  no  time  to  waste 


CANTO  III.]  THE   RELAPSE.  05 

(Said  he)  ;  a  pious  resolution 

Should  straight  be  put  in  execution,  180 

And  with  your  leave  I  shall  depart." 

"  I  grant  it  you  with  all  ray  heart " 
Quoth  Noble  ;  and  his  Courtiers  all 
He  call'd  together,  great  and  small, 
And  earnestly  did  recommend  them,  185 

Part  of  his  journey  to  attend  him. 

Reynard,  ere  his  last  leave  he  took, 
Said  to  the  King :  "  My  Liege,  pray  look 
To  those  two  felons,  whom  you  order'd 
To  prison;  lest  by  them  y'are-murder'd.  190 

They  are  two  dang'rous  rogues,  who  would 
Contrive  your  ruin,  if  they  could." 

Thus  he  departed  from  the  Court, 
Attended  by  a  great  escort 

Of  those,  who  curs'd  him  in  their  heart.  195 

He  was  right  glad,  that  through  his  art 
He  led  the  King,  as  well  as  those, 
Who  were  his  haters,  by  the  nose. 

When  he  was  gone  a  little  way, 
With  feign'd  reluctance  and  dismay  200 

He  from  th'escorting  train  took  leave. 
For  Pussey  he  seem'd  much  to  grieve ; 
"  Are  we  indeed  (said  he)  to  part, 
Dear  Puss  ?     It  wounds  my  very  heart, 
To  part  with  Simple  and  with  thee,  2i>"> 

Who  never  gave  offence  to  me. 


96  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

Come  further  on  with  me  a  while ; 

Your  manners  are  so  void  of  guile, 

You  are  so  modest  in  your  ways,     • 

That  all  folks  speak  of  you  with  praise.  210 

Like  me  (when  once  a  monk  I  was) 

You  live  on  greens,  and  herbs  and  grass, 

And  never  care  for  fish,  or  meat, 

Or  other  victuals,  nice  to  eat." 

With  this  gross  flatt'ry  he  at  once  215 

Prevail'd  on  both  the  simpletons, 
To  travel  with  him  to  his  house, 
And  on  they  jogg'd  to  Malpertouse.  ^ 

When  they  came  to  the  castle-gate, 
Reynard  said  :  "  Pray,  friend  Simple,  wait ;        220 
I  for  some  minutes  will  step  in 
With  Puss,  who  is  one  of  our  Kin. 
Commend  to  her,  if  you'll  be  kind, 
To  bid  my  wife  to  ease  her  mind ; 
For  she  is  apt  to  take  a  fright,  225 

As  at  this  juncture  well  she  might, 
When  I  shall  let  her  understand 
That  I  go  to  the  holy  land." 

Thus  by  fair  words  the  cunning  thief 
Gain'd  with  the  silly  ram  belief;  230 

With  Puss  he  went  into  his  burrow, 
And  found  his  wife  oppress'd  with  sorrow. 
She  never  thought  he  would  escape ; 
But  seeing  him  in  pilgrim's  shape 


CANTO  HI.]  THE    RELAPSE.  97 

She,  what  with  wonder  and  surprise,  235 

Could  hardly  trust  to  her  own  eyes. 
"  For  heav'ns  sake  (cried  she),  Reynard,  tell 
What  strange  adventures  thee  befell." 

"  I  have  been  sent  to  jail,  (said  he)  ; 
But  soon  the  King  did  set  me  free.  240 

Growler  and  Brown  for  me  gave  bail, 
On  which  I  was  let  out  of  jail, 
And  sent  on  a  long  pilgrimage. 
The  King,  our  hardship  to  assuage, 
Kindly  presents  us  with  this  hare,  245 

Whom  he  desires  us,  not  to  spare ; 
For  this  malicious,  sneaking  thing 
Has  much  belied  me,  says  the  King." 

Poor  Pussey,  struck  with  sad  dismay 
On  hearing  this,  would  run  away ;  250 

But  Reynard,  seiz'd  her  by  her  thigh. 
Puss  call'd  out  with  a  piteous  cry : 
"JJelp,  friend,  the  pilgrim  and  his  wife 
Take  barb'rously  away  my  life ! " 
But  Reynard  quell'd  her  voice  and  breath,         255 
And  in  a  trice  bit  her  to  death. 

So  he  regal'd  Iris  silly  guest. 
"  Come  (said  he)  and  fall  to  in  haste ; 
The  hare  is  fat,  and  nice  to  eat, 
And  will  yield  a  delicious  treat.  260 

She'll  now  no  more  complain  of  me." 
His  wife  and  brats  fell  to  with  glee, 
7 


98  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

And  Erminet  did  oft  exclaim : 

'•  God  bless  the  King  and  his  fair  Dame ! 

A  happy  night  to  them  I  wish,  265 

For  sending  us  so  nice  a  dish." 

When  all  of  them  had  satisfied 
Their  appetite,  the  she-fox  cried  : 
"  Tell  us  now,  how  you  got  away." 

Quoth  he  :  "I  could  not  in  a  day  270 

Tell  all  the  tricks,  that  I  have  been 
A  playing  to  the  King  and  Queen. 
"Our  friendship  is  but  thinly  spun, 
And  thinner  't  will  become  anon, 
When  soon  or  late  the  truth  comes  out.  275 

The  King  will  make  a  furious  rout, 
And  at  my  heels  he  soon  will  be. 
I'm  sure  he  will  not  pardon  me  ; 
But  for  a  treach'rous,  lying  wight, 
He'll  hang  me,  if  he  can,  outright.  280 

To  Switzerland,  I  think,  I  shall 
Hi-tire,  where  I'm  not  kmmn  at  ;tll  : 
Lord  bless  me,  what  a  fruitful  soil ! 
There's  milk  and  honey,  wine  and  oil ; 
Fine  wild-fowl,  game  of  every  kin3  285 

And  fish  of  all  sorts  we  shall  find. 
Some  of  them  they  call  Pullus,  Gallus, 
Cotumix,  Anser,  ferdix,  Rallus. 
At  such  I  always  lik'd  to  snatch, 
Because  dry-shod  you  may  them  catch ;  290 


CANTO  HI.]  THE    RELAPSE.  99 

They  were  my  food,  e'en  during  fast, 
When  in  the  Convent  I  liv'd  last. 
To  that  good  country  we'll  resort, 
To  live  in  peace,  and  t'have  good  sport. 

Besides,  to  tell  thee  every  thing,  295 

I  have  been  pardon'd  by  the  King, 
Because  I  did  make  him  believe 
That  he  a  treasure  should  receive, 
Hid  at  a  place,  call'd  Quarrelpit ; 
But  little  will  he  see  of  it.  300 

His  wrath  and  fury  will  be  great 
When  he  perceives  the  barefac'd  cheat ; 
But  I  was  fain  to  tell  a  lie, 
To  escape  the  hangman's  tie. 

Thanks  to  my  wit,  I  got  away;  305 

But  I  would  not  another  day 
Try,  his  good  grace  again  to  gain, 
Which  I  might  not  so  cheap  obtain." 

Quoth  Erminet :     "  'T  is  hard,  to  go 
To  foreign  parts,  which  we  don't  know ;  310 

For  while  we  can  supply  at  home 
Our  wants,  we  have  no  need  to  roam. 
A  (Jhick  in  hand  is  worth  much  more, 
Than  of  Cranes  flying  half  a  score. 
Of  danger  there  is  no  great  fear,  315 

Whilst  in  bur  Castle  we  live  here. 
It  is  well  fortified,  and  strong, 
And  if  besieg'd,  't  will  hold  out  long, 


100  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

And  we  have  many  a  secret  way, 

In  case  of  need  to  get  away.  320 

Therefore  I'm  sorry  for  your  vow 

To  go  on  pilgrimage  just  now." 

"  Why  now,  (said  Reynard),  my  good  wife, 
I'll  rather  swear,  than  lose  my  life ; 
But  if  in  bonds  I  made  that  vow,  325 

Since  I  am  free,  I'll  break  it  now ; 
For  learned  Casuists  will  tell  you, 
That  a  forc'd  oath  doth  not  compel  you. 
No  bus'ness  at  the  holy  grave, 
Nor  with  the  Pope  of  Rome,  I  have  ;  330 

Then  ease  your  mind,  for  I  will  stay, 
And  stand  the  brunt  here,  as  you  say. 
For  may  be,  I  should  meet  as  bad 
And  worse,  were  I  to  go  abroad. 
To  hurt  me  here,  I  think,  the  King  335 

Will  not  find  it  an  easy  thing ; 
If  he  hath  pow'r,  I  don't  want  wit : 
We'll  see  who  gets  the  worst  of  it." 

Meantime  the  Ram  was  tir'd,  to  wait 
And  kick  his  heels  at  Reynard's  gate.  340 

He  call'd  out :  "  Puss,  where  do  you  stay  ? 
Come  out,  and  let  us  go  away." 

Reynard  stept  forth,  and  told  him  :  "  Friend, 
Puss  doth  herself  to  you  commend,          ' 
And  as  with  us  she's  making  merry,  345 

A  little  she  would  wish  to  tarry, 


CANTO  III.]  THE    RELAPSE.  101 

And  if  you  slowly  will  walk  on, 
She  says,  she'll  follow  you  anon." 

"  Hum  !  (said  the  Ram)  ;  but  pray,  what  noise 
Was  heard  just  now  ?     'T  was  like  the  voice     350 
Of  Puss,  who  cried  most  piteously, 
And  for  assistance  call'd  to  me." 

"  No,  (said  the  rogue),  't  was  no  such  thing. 
My  Consort  fell  a  whimpering 
When  of  my  journey  she  did  hear.  355 

Puss  was  much  for  her  life  in  fear, 
And  call'd  out :  "  Help,  our  pilgrim's  wife 
Is  like,  for  grief  to  lose  her  life." 

"  Be  this  (quoth  Simple)  as  it  may ; 
She  seem'd  to  call  in  great  dismay."  360 

"No  (replied  Rankey),  never  fear; 
For  Puss  to  me  is  very  dear, 
And  rather,  than  to  give  her  pain, 
To  serve  her,  every  nerve  I'd  strain. 
But  I  must  not  forget  to  say,  365 

Before  to  Court  you  go  away, 
That  when  we  parted  last,  the  King 
Bade  me  to  write  about  some  thing. 
Whilst  Puss  was,  in  her  sprightly  way, 
With  Erminet  all  blithe  and  gay,  370 

And  both  together  lik'd  to  chatter 
On  this  and  that,  and  th'other  matter, 
To  write  those  letters  I  had  leisure  ; 
If  you'll  take  them,  't  will  give  me  pleasure." 


102  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

"  Why,  yes,  (said  Simple),  very  well ;  375 

But  where  to  put  them,  please  to  tell, 
For  I  have  neither  pouch,  nor  sack." 

Quoth  he  :  "  The  Knapsack  from  Brown's  back 
Will  serve  the  purpose  well  enough, 
For  it  is  very  tight  and  tough.  380 

I'll  go  and  put  the  letters  in, 
And  straight  come  back  to  you  again." 

Instead  of  that,  he  went  and  made 
A  parcel  up  of  Pussey's  head, 
And  coming  back,  he  for  a  sham  385 

Thus  caution'd  the  poor  silly  Ram  : 
"  Pray,  take  this  Knapsack  on  your  neck, 
And  lest  the  letter-seals  should  break, 
Refrain  from  handling  the  contents. 
I've  tied  it  fast  at  all  events,  390 

And  if  the  King  finds  that  the  Knot 
Is  as  I  tied  it,  well  I  wot 
That  he  will  pay  you  for  your  pain. 
If  his  applause  you  wish  to  gain, 
Tell  him,  that  you,  whilst  I  did  write,  395 

Help'd  me  the  letters  to  indite. 
You'll  surely  meet  with  due  reward.". 

The  Ram  for  joy  leapt  up  a  yard. 
"  I  now  perceive  indeed  (said  he) 
How  much  you  love  and  favour  me.  400 

It  will  be  a  delightful  sport, 
To  hear  all  Gentlemen  at  Court 


CANTO  III.]  THE   RELAPSE.  103 

Commend  me  for  my  style  in  writing 

And  subtlety  of  my  inditing  ; 

For  though  the  praise  to  You  is  due,  405 

They  know  it  not.     Great  thanks  to  you ! 

'T  is  well,  I  came  with  you  this  way. 

Doth  Pussey,  now  come  with  me,  pray  ?  " 

"  No,  she'll  stay  yet  a  while  with  me, 
Ere  I  can  part  with  her,  (quoth  he)  ;  410 

But  if  you  slowly  will  walk  on, 
She'll  overtake  you,  when  we've  done." 

The  Ram  took  leave,  and  did  not  tarry, 
The  message  to  the  King  to  carry. 
'T  was  noon-day  when  he  came  to  Court.  415 

The  King,  who  saw  him  in  such  port, 
And  that  with  Reynard's  bag  he  came, 
Ask'd  him,  what  of  the  Fox  became. 

Quoth  he  :  "An't  please  your  Majesty, 
Reynard  besought  me  earnestly,  420 

Some  letters  straight  to  you  to  carry, 
And  in  this  bag  they  are ;  but  marry  ! 
When  Reynard  did  the  letters  write, 
Great  part  I  help'd  him  to  indite ; 
I  therefore  hope  you'll  find  the  writ  '  425 

Not  destitute  of  sense  and  wit." 

The  Beaver  was  first  notary 
And  head-clerk  to  his  Majesty, 
In  foreign  tongues  he  was  well  versed, 
And  writs  and  letters  he  rehearsed  430 


104  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  II. 

In  Council.     Castor  was  his  name, 

And  he  was  sent  for.     When  he  came, 

He  was  commanded  by  the  King, 

To  see  what  news  the- Ram  did  bring, 

He  op'd  the  bag,  but  in  a  fright  435 

He  call'd  out :  "  What  a  shocking  sightj 

Would  any  one  such  thing  believe  ? 

'T  is  Pussey's  head,  sure  as  I  live." 

This  sadly  shock'd  the  King  and  Queen. 
The  King  exclaim'd  with  rage  and  spleen :         440 
"  Had  I  this  rascal  here  again, 
I'd  make  him  suffer  endless  pain. 
How  that  base  villain  cheated  me  ! " 
His  wrath  rose  to  such  high  degree, 
That  he  made  all  the  woods  resound,  445 

And  frighten'd  every  soul  around. 

The  Leopard,  who  sat  next  by  him, 
Said :  "  Why,  Sir,  should  you  look  so  grim, 
And  vex  yourself  about  such  thing  ? 
Such  grief  doth  not  become  a  King,  450 

Who  ne'er  is  judg'd  to  do  amiss  ?  " 

"  Are  you  (quoth  Noble)  sure  of  this  ? 
Is't  wonderful  to  see  me  grieve, 
That  I  this  villain  could  believe, 
Who  made  me  my  best  friends  bear  down,         455 
Stout  Growler  and  his  cousin  Brown  ?. 
'T  will  stab  my  honour  to  the  quick, 
That  he  induc'd  me  by  his  trick, 


CANTO  HI.]  THE    RELAPSE.  105 

My  two  first  Barons  to  offend*.  „ 

Which  't  will  be  difficult  to  mend.  460 

This  all  is  owing  to  my  wife, 

Who  begg'd  me  much  to  spare  his  life, 

Till  I  was  forc'd  to  lend  an  ear ; 

Which  I'm  left  to  repent,  I  fear." 

Quoth  he  :  "  Sir,  if  you  have  offended,  465 

I'm  sure,  the  matter  may  be  mended. 
That  your  two  injur'd  Barons  must 
Have  some  atonement,  is  but  just, 
The  Ram  hath  own'd  without  disguise, 
That  he  did  Pussey's  death  advise,  470 

By  which  he  forfeited  his  life. 
Give  him  to  Growler  and  his  wife 
And  to  their  wounded  cousin  Brown, 
And  they'll  be  thankful  for  the  boon. 
Then  we'll  of  Reynard  go  in  quest;  475 

I  hope  to  catch  him  in  his  nest. 
To  try  him,  is  not  worth  a  straw ; 
We'll  hang  him  straight  by  martial  law, 
For  if  he's  suffer'd  to  harangue, 
We  ne'er  shall  live  to  see  him  hang.  480 

The  King  approving  this  advice, 
There  was  no  need  to  give  it  twice. 
"  Go,  (he  replied),  without  delay, 
And  fetch  th'  imprison'd  Barons,  pray. 
Tell  them  :  We  from  our  royal  Grace  485 

Restore  to  them  their  rank  and  place ; 


106  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  II. 

Henceforth  the  same  respect  to  Brown 
And  Growler  shall  again  be  show'n, 
Which  hath  in  former  time  been  paid  them 
Before  the  wicked  fox  betray'd  them.  490 

You'll  let  them  know  how  he  contriv'd, 
That  Pussey  was  of  life  depriv'd, 
And  that,  abetted  by  the  Ram, 
Her  head  he  sent  us  for  a  sham. 
To  make  the  Ram  pay  for  his  sin,  495 

They  shall  have  him  and  all  his  Kin." 
The  Leopard  to  the  pris'ners  went, 
To  whom  his  mind  he  thus  unbent : 
"  Good  news  I  bring  to  you  (quoth  he). 
The  King-  sets  you  at  liberty,  500 

And  very  sorry,  Sirs,  he  is, 
If  any  thing  was  done  amiss. 
Therefore  he  order'd  me  to  proffer 
The  Ram  to  you,  by  way  of  offer. 
Him  and  his  Kin  and  friends  you  may  505 

At  any  time  destroy  and  slay. 
He  further  grants  you  his  permission 
To  waylay  without  intermission 
Rankey  the  Fox,  your  enemy, 
His  wife  and  all  his  family.  510 

You  may  detain,  imprison,  kill 
And  slay  them,  when  and  where  you  will. 
These  grants  he  will  bestow  on  you 
And  on  all  your  descendants  too, 


ONTO  TIT.]  THE    RELAPSE.  107 

Provided  you  forget  the  past,  515 

And  will  be  loyal  to  the  last." 

This  offer  being  by  the  Bear 
And  Wolf  thought  honorable  and  fair, 
Poor  Simple  did  with  all  his  Kin 
Pay  for  the  bargain  with  their  skin.  520 

No  treaty  after  long  contention 
Was  ever  kept  with  more  attention  ; 
For  Wolves  and  Bears  devour  and  slay 
Poor  harmless  sheep  until  this  day. 


PART   III. 
CANTO  I.  — THE   OUTLAWRY. 


ARGUMENT. 

The  King  prolongs  the  feasts  at  Court, 
To  which  all  beasts  and  birds  resort. 
.  The  Rabbit  and  the  Crow  complain 
Of  Reynard's  treachery  again ; 
Of  which  his  friend,  the  badger  Gray, 
Gives  him  a  hint  that  very  day. 
Him  Reynard  gaily  doth  invite 
To  sup  with  him,  and  spend  the  night. 

THE  King,  desirous  to  confer 
More  honour  on  the  Wolf  and  Bear, 
For  twelve  days  more  prolong'd  the  feasts, 
To  the  great  joy  of  birds  and  beasts ; 
But  greater  joy  did  Reynard's  fall  5 

And  new  disgrace  give  to  them  all, 
And  they  resolv'd,  of  him  again 
In  a  joint  body  to  complain. 

New  messengers  to  every  end 
Of  his  great  realm  the  King  did  send.  10 

[108] 


CAXTO  T.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  109 

Beasts  of  all  Kind,  Birds  of  all  feather 

Came  flocking  from  all  parts  together ; 

But  in  the  mean  time,  night  and  day, 

Reynard  in  waiting  for  them  lay, 

And  not  a  few  he  made  repent,  15 

That  on  such  pastime  they  were  bent. 

Great  was  the  merriment  and  sport 
With  balls  and  tournament*  at  CYmrt  ; 
Trumpets  did  sound,  and  bells  were  rung; 
Some  danc'd,  some  fought,  some  drank  and  sung,  20 
While  King  and  Queen  did  look  about 
With  pleasure  on  the  merry  rout. 

But  when  the  eighth  day  scarce  was  past, 
And  Noble  sat  at  his  repast, 

The  Rabbit  came  with  mournful  mien,  25 

And  thus  address'd  the  King  and  Queen  : 
"  With  pain  and  sorrow  I  appear, 
My  Liege  and  Queen,  before  You  here. 
You  never  saw  such  treachery, 
As  Reynard  practis'd  against  me.  30 

At  dawn  of  morning  yesterday, 
As  I  came  travelling  this  way, 
I  saw  him  sitting  at  his  door. 
A  pilgrim's  dress  and  hood  he  wore. 
I  thought  he  read  his  morning  pray'r,  35 

And  without  caution  I  drew  near. 
He  got  up  from  his  seat,  to  meet  me ; 
I  thought,  he  friendly  meant  to  greet  me ; 


110  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  in. 

But  of  a  sudden  with  his  claw 

He  gave  me  such  a  horrid  paw,  40 

That,  what  with  fright,  what  with  the  wound, 

It  brought  me  nearly  to  the  ground. 

Thanks  to  my  legs,  I  got  away, 

Or  I  should  not  have  liv'd  this  day ; 

But  still  I  lost  part  of  my  ear,  4"> 

And  was  almost  half  dead  with  fear. 

Whoever  ventures  o'er  the  plain, 

Risks,  by  him  basely  to  be  slain." 

Whilst  thus  the  Rabbit  told  his  story, 
The  Crow  came  in,  cast  down  and  sorry.  50 

"My  Liege,  (quoth  he),  I  scarce  can  speak, 
And  my  poor  heart  is  like  to  break. 
The  loss,  which  I  have  undergone, 
Would  be  enough  to  move  a  stone. 
My  wife  and  I  this  morning  early  55 

Were  coming  through  a  field  of  barley, 
Where  Reynard  in  a  path  did  lie, 
With  eyes  askance,  and  head  awry, 
Like  a  dead  dog ;  his  tongue  uncouth 
Did  hang  out  of  his  gaping  mouth.  60 

I  call'd  for  help  in  great  dismay, 
But  dead  like  any  stone  he  lay. 
Mj  wife  his  belly  strok'd,  and  chin, 
To  try  if  life  was  still  within. 
But  while  she  thought,  he  was  quite  dead,  65 

He  seiz'd  her,  and  bit  off  her  head. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  Ill 

At  me  the  traitor  likewise  snapp'd, 

And  I  but  narrowly  escap'd ; 

Then,  perching  on  a  neighb'ring  tree, 

I  with  my  eyes  was  doom'd  to  see  70 

How  my  poor  wife  he  did  devour ; 

Nay,  if  there  had  been  half  a  score, 

He'd  have  devour'd  them  all  together. 

He  scarcely  left  of  her  this  feather, 

Which,  when  the  murderer  was  gone,  75 

I  came  to  gather  up  anon. 

My  Liege,  it  is  of  highest  need, 

To  punish  this  atrocious  deed ; 

For  those,  who  would  the  guilty  spare, 

Are  justly  deem'd,  the  guilt  to  share."  80 

The  King,  who  heard  these  new  complaints. 
And  weigh'd  the  plaintiff's  arguments, 
Was  vex'd  with  anger  and  with  grief, 
And  breathing  wrath  against  the  thief, 
He  said  :  "  Well,  by  the  faith  We  owe  85 

T'our  loving  Consort,  we  do  vow, 
This  breach  of  peace  shall  cost  him  dear. 
I  have  done  wrong,  to  lend  an  ear 
To  his  lies,  and  to  let  him  loose. 
The  villain  us'd  me  like  a  goose,  90 

When  I  a  palmer  made  of  him, 
And  sent  him  to  Jerusalem. 
But  I  may  thank  my  wife  for  it; 
For  all  is  owing  to  her  wit ; 


112  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III- 

Though  I  am  not  the  only  fool,  95 

Who  hath  been  made  a  woman's  tool. 

This  Rankey  is  a  lying  thief, 

Who  thinks  of  nothing  but  mischief. 

It  is  high  time  to  mar  his  plots, 

Lest  all  the  world  think,  we  are  sots.  100 

Then  let  us  find  out  means,  to  get  him, 

And  when  we  have  him,  we  will  sweat  him." 

Growler,  as  well  as  Brown  the  Bear, 
We  re 'glad  to  hear  King  Noble  swear ; 
They  wish'd  much  to  stir  up  his  rage,  105 

And  yet  to  speak  they  durst  not  wage, 
Because  so  furious  was  his  look, 
Their  noise  he  might  not  calmly  brook. 

At  last  the  Queen  put  in  a  word. 
"  Don't  be  so  wroth,  (she  said),  My  Lord,          110 
And  don't  so  lightly  vow  and  swear, 
If  you  will  of  reproach  beware. 
We  can  not  fairly  weigh  the  case, 
Before  we  hear  what  Reynard  says. 
The  Proverb  :  Alteram  partem  audi  115 

Is  a  good  rule  for  any  body, 
And  may  be,  if  the  fox  was  here, 
A  diff'rent  story  we  might  hear  ; 
For  every  one  (we  all  know  well) 
In  his  own  way  his  tale  will  tell.  120 

He  may  be  bad,  for  aught  I  know, 
But  that  he's  clever,  you'll  allow. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  113 

The  number  of  his  friends  is  great, 

And  they  are  useful  to  the  State. 

I  thought  his  tale  was  void  of  art,  125 

And  on  that  ground  I  took  his  part : 

If  I'm  mistaken,  time  will  show  it ; 

If  you  will  hang  him,  you  may  do  it ; 

But  don't  condemn  him  hastily, 

Lest  you  repent  it  leisurely."  130 

"  Sir,  (said  the  Leopard),  it  is  true, 
To  wait,  can  draw  no  blame  on  you. 
The  Queen's  opinion  I  think  wise, 
And  if  these  Lords  the  same  advise, 
Let  Reynard  be  allow'd  to  speak,  135 

Before  your  wrath  on  him  you  wreak." 

Quoth  Growler:  "'T  will  not  be  amiss, 
To  take  a  fool's  advice  on  this. 
Sir  Leopard,  if  the  fox  was  here, 
And  would  attempt,  himself  to  clear  140 

Of  all  the  matter,  which  the  Crow 
And  Rabbit  have  advanc'd  just  now, 
I  have  in  store  some  other  thing, 
Which  to  the  gallows  him  must  bring ; 
But  I'll  be  silent  now,  and  let  him,  145 

Until  before  the  bar  we  get  him. 
Was  't  not  enough,  the  wily  thief 
Durst  impose  on  the  King's  belief, 
And  tell  him  in  his  lying  fit 
Of  treasures  hid  at  Quarrelpit?  150 


114  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

And  have  not  Brown  and  I  been  shent, 

And  for  his  lies  to  prison  sent? 

I'll  lay  my  life,  he  would  be  flay'd, 

Ere  but  one  word  of  truth  he  said  ; 

For  since  his  birth  his  whole  intent  loo 

On  mischief  and  deceit  is  bent. 

My  Lords,  you'll  do  what  you  think  fit. 

And  I  must  be  content  with  it ; 

But  if  he  ventur'd  to  appear, 

Ere  now  you  would  have  seen  him  here."  160 

Quoth  Noble  :  "  It  is  as  you  say ; 
What  serves  it  then,  for  him  to  stay  ? 
We'll  have  an  end  of  his  affair, 
And  I  command  you,  to  repair 
In  six  days  time,  arm'd  Cap-a-pie,  1 65 

To  this  spot,  and  to  follow  me. 
Let  every  one  be  in  his  gear 
With  bow  and  arrows,  sword  and  spear, 
And  when  Y'are  rang'd,  each  to  his  banner. 
Behave  yourselves  in  such  a  manner,  1 70 

That  I  with  honour  may  call  Sir 
Him,  on  whom  knighthood  I  confer. 
We  will  proceed  to  Malpertouse, 
And  take  him  up  at  his  own  house." 

This  measure  being  fix'd  upon  175 

By  all  the  Council,  Gray  anon 
In  greatest  hurry  did  depart, 
The  news  to  Reynard  to  impart. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  115 

Whilst  pensive  o'er  the  plain  he  walk'd, 

Thus  to  himself  in  dumps  he  talk'd:  180 

"  Poor  Reynard !  Now  it  is  indeed 

A  question,  how  at  last  you'll  speed. 

Of  all  your  clan  you  are  the  head, 

For  whom  we  now  are  left  to  dread ; 

Else,  when  for  us  you  us'd  to  plead,  185 

In  all  concerns  we  did  succeed." 

With  this  and  such  like  lamentation, 
Gray  finish'd  his  pei*egrination. 
When  he  arriv'd  at  Malpertouse, 
Reynard  met  him  before  his  house.  190 

Two  fine  young  pigeons,  which  to  leave 
Their  nest  had  ventur'd  in  the  eve, 
And  meant,  their  little  wings  to  try, 
H'  had  caught,  because  they  could  not  fly. 
When  he  saw  Gray,  he  came  to  meet  him,         195 
And  friendly  did  receive  and  greet  him. 
"  Be  welcome  here,  my  friend,  (said  he)  ; 
You  always  mean  it  well  with  me. 
You  seem  to  be  in  wondrous  flurry  ; 
What  news  d'  ye  bring  in  sudh  a  hurry  ?  "          200 

"  News  I  have  got  indeed,  (quoth  Gray)  ; 
But  not  the  best,  I'm  griev'd  to  say. 
I  am  much  for  your  life  afraid, 
For  e'en  the  King  himself  hath  said 
That  you  a  shameful  death  shall  die,  205 

And  orders  he  did  notify 


116  •  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  m. 

To  his  troops,  to  attend  him  here 

In  six  days  time,  with  sword  and  spear. 

This  wears  a  very  dang'rous  face  ; 

For  Brown  stands  high  in  his  good  grace,          210 

And  Growler  is  in  favour  too 

With  him,  as  much  as  I'm  with  you, 

And  it  is  said  that  out  of  hand 

He'll  get  a  general  command. 

In  short,  I  fear  some  ill  design  215 

Is  form'd,  which  you  must  countermine. 

The  number  of  your  friends  is  small, 

While  crowds  of  foes  contrive  your  fall. 

Of  late  the  Crow  and  Rabbit  too 

Have  grievously  complain'd  of  you.  220 

If  you  are  caught,  your  life  will  be 

(I  fear)  in  greatest  jeopardy." 

"And  is  this  all?  (ask'd  Reynard),  Pshaw! 
I  do  rtot  value  it  a  straw. 

The  King  and  all  his  Court  may  swear  225 

Whate'er  they  please ;  I  do  not  care. 
If  I  advise  myself,  you'll  see, 
United  they  won't  injure  me. 
Come,  take  a  "bit  of  supper,  pray, 
And  let  us  send  all  cares  away.  230 

Two  fat  young  pigeons  I  just  now 
Have  caught ;  they  are  nice  food,  I  trow, 
And  you  may  eat  them,  bones  and  all, 
For  suppers  should  be  light  and  small. 


CAHTO  I.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  117 

My  wife  will  strive  to  treat  us  well ;  235 

But  pray,  be  cautious,  not  to  tell 

The  matter,  which  has  brought  you  here ; 

For  smallest  things  put  her  in  fear. 

To  morrow  we  will  go  to  Court, 

Where  I  depend  on  your  support."  240 

"  I  shall  (quoth  Gray)  be  staunch  and  true, 
And  lay  down  goods  and  life  for  you." 

"  'T  is  comfort  (Rankey  said)  you  give ; 
I'll  thank  you  for  it,  if  I  live." 

"  For  your  advice,  friend,  I  can  say  245 

That  you  may  safely  come,  (said  Gray). 
The  Leopard  mov'd  to-day  the  Court, 
(The  Queen  his  motion  did  support), 
That  full  permission  should  be  granted 
To  you,  to  speak  all  that  you  wanted,  250 

And  that,  until  you  had  been  heard, 
Your  life  by  all  means  should  be  spar'd."       ,  . 

Quoth  Reynrfrd :  "  To  obtain  this  grant, 
Will  be  as  much,  as  I  shall  want ; 
For  if  I  get  but  leave  to  chatter,  255 

I  soon  shall  twist  about  the  matter." 

This  said,  they  stept  into  the  hall, 
Where  Gray  was  well  receiv'd  by  all ; 
And  Erminet  serv'd  up  the  dish, 
On  which  they  feasted  at  their  wish.  260 

Whilst  they  were  sitting  at  their  mess 
Reynard  said  :  "  Pray  my  friend,  confess, 


118  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

What  think  you  of  our  little  crew, 

And  how  appear  my  brats  to  you  ? 

They  are  two  little  cunning  elves,  265 

Who  begin  to  exert  themselves. 

They'll  catch  a  gosling,  or  a  pullet, 

To  fill  their  pretty  little  gullet ; 

The  one  will  lurk,  the  other  dive ; 

Faith,  I'm  in  hopes,  they  both  will  thrive.          270 

But  ere  I  send  them  out,  to  hunt, 

They  first  shall  learn,  to  stand  the  brunt 

Of  yelping  hounds,  and  to  beware 

Of  baited  trap  and  hidden  snare. 

Already  after  me  they  take  ;  275 

They  know  the  leap,  the  snatch,  the  shake ; 

For  oft  in  play  I  do  impart 

To  the  young  mimics  all  my  art." 

Quoth  Gray :  "  'T  is  happiness  indeed 
And  pride,  to  see  one's  children  speed,  280 

And  young  lads  should  be  early  rmtde 
Acquainted  with  their  parent's  trade. 
I'm  very  glad,  to  hear  you  tell, 
My  pretty  cousins  promise  well." 

"  Thank  you  !  we'll  now  leave  that  alone       285 
(Quoth  Reynard),  and  to  bed  be  gone  ; 
You  must  be  tir'd,  and  't  is  the  best 
For  us,  to  take  a  little  rest." 

This  said,  the  floor  was  strew'd  with  hay, 
And  all  about  the  hall  they  lay ;  290 


CANTO  I.]  THE    OUTLAWRY.  119 

Though  Reynard  was  not  free  from  fright, 
And  hardly  closed  an  eye  that  night. 

When  in  the  morn  he  left  his  bed, 
He  call'd  his  wife,  to  whom  he  said : 
"  Do  not  be  frighten'd  ;  I  with  Gray  295 

To  Court  again  must  go  away. 
If  idle  tales  are  told  of  me, 
Let  them  by  no  means  trouble  thee, ' 
But  hoping  always  for  the  best, 
Be  careful  of  our  little  nest."  300 

"  Reynard  (said  she),  pray  mind  what  pass'd 
When  you  to  Court  were  summon  d  last." 

"  If  I  was  last  in  danger  there, 
(Quoth  he),  I  now  may  better  fare. 
Wise  men  grope  often  in  the  dark,  305 

And  ablest  shots  may  miss  the  mark. 
I  can't  avoid  to  go,  you  hear ; 
Then  be  content,  and  banish  fear. 
In  five  days  I  come  back  to  you, 
If  all  goes  well.     Mean  time  adieu!"  310 


CANTO   IL  — THE  JOURNEY. 


ARGUMENT. 

Reynard  sets  out,  and  by  the  way 
Once  more  he  doth  confess  to  Gray. 
To  palliate  his  guilt  and  shame, 
He  on  the  Clergy  casts  the  blame. ' 
His  friend  reproves  his  vain  quotations, 
Though  he  admits  his  observations. 
Pug  makes  an  offer,  to  proceed 
To  Rome,  his  cause  for  him  to  plead. 

WHILE.  Reynard  walk'd  along  with  Gray 
He  told  his  nephew  by  the  way : 
"  'T  is  difficult  to  guess  (you  know) 
What  fate  at  Court  awaits  me  now. 
At  any  rate  I  think  it  best,  5 

Once  more  by  you  to  be  confess'd  : 
Therefore  my  sins,  both  great  and  small, 
I  am  resolv'd  to  tell  you  all. 

It  was  a  great  and  heinous  sin, 
That  I  mad.e  Brown  part  with  his  skin.  10 

[1201 


CAXTO  II.]  THE   JOURNEY.  121 

Growler  and  Surly  too  did  lose 
Their  claws,  lo  get  me  gloves  and  shoes  ; 
For  rancour  against  them,  and  spite, 
Made  me  the  Kings  ill-will  excite. 

I  much  abus'd  his  royal  ear,  15 

By  telling  him  of  jewels  dear, 
Of  treasures,  hid  at  Quarrelpit, 
And  Goldsmith's  work ;  which  was  not  fit. 

Poor  Puss  I  kill'd  with  fell  intent, 
And  to  the  King  her  head  I  sent ;  20 

Which  cost  the  harmless  Ram  his  life. 

The  Crow  complains,  I  kill'd  his  wife  ; 
The  Rabbit  says,  I  cropt  his  ear ; 
All  which  is  but  too  true,  I  fear. 

One  thing,  besides,  I  last  forgot,  25 

With  which  my  conscience  I  did  blot ; 
A  trick,  which  to  the  Wolf  I  play'd, 
Which  I  don't  wish  to  get  repaid : 
Once,  while  we  saunter'd  o'er  a  plain, 
Growler  of  hunger  did  complain  ;  30 

A  fine  foal-mare  we  there  espied, 
Whose  Colt  was  skipping  by  her  side. 
Growler  sent  me,  to  ask  the  Mare, 
If  she  to  us  her  Colt  would  spare, 
And  how  dear  it  was  to  be  sold.  35 

I  went,  and  by  the  Mare  was  told, 
That  if  I  wish'd  to  know  the  price, 
She'd  let  me  read  it  in  a  trice. 


122  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  HI. 

Her  words  were  follow'd"  by  a  motion, 

Which  made  me  tell  her  :  "  I've  no  notion  40 

Of  letters,  and  I  am  not  bent 

On  Colts-flesh ;  but  I  have  been  sent 

By  Growler,  who  is  with  me  here." 

"  Then  (said  she)  tell  him  to  draw  near." 

I  went,  and  told  him :  "  If  you'll  eat  45 

A  copious  mess  of  nice  Colt's-meat, 
The  Mare  will  sell  her  Foal  to  you. 
The  price  is  mark'd  below  her  shoe. 
She  would  have  shovv'd  it  me,  indeed, 
But  I  was  never  taught  to  read.  50 

You  had  best  go,  and  try  to  spell  it." 

"  It  were  strange,  if  I  could  not  tell  it, 
(Said  he),  who  am  so  deeply  read 
In  languages,  both  quick  and  dead, 
In  which  I  often  have  disputed,-  55 

And  many  learned  Clerks  confuted. 
Nay,  writings,  which  to  few  are  known, 
I  read  as  glibly,  as  my  own. 
If  you'll  but  wait  a  little  bit, 
I'll  go,  and  read  this  -curious  writ."  60 

He  ran,  and  ask'd  the  Mare,  how  dear 
She'd  sell  her  Colt.     She  said :  "  Look  here, 
The  price  is  noted  on  my  shoe." 

"  Lei's  see,"  quoth  he.     She  said :  '•  Pray  do." 
This  said,  she  lifted  up  her  heel,  65 

And  with  a  kick  she  made  him  reel ; 


CANTO  II.]  THE   JOURNEY.  123 

For  she  had  got  an  iron  shoe 

"With  six  sharp  nails,  put  on  quite  new, 

Which  she  imprinted  on  his  head, 

And  near  an  hour  he  lay  for  dead.  70 

Whilst  both  the  Mare  and  Colt  ran  off, 
I  came  and  ask'd  him,  for  a  scoff: 
"  Pray  Sir,  how  did  you  like  the  Foal  ? 
Have  you  alone  eat  up  the  Whole, 
And  not  left  me  the  smallest  share  75 

For  bringing  answer  from  the  Mare  ? 
Pray  tell,  what  on  her  Shoe  was  writ ; 
For  surely  you've  decipher'd  it. 
Have  you  been  napping  after  dinner  ?  " 

"  Don't  banter  a  poor,  hapless  sinner,  80 

(Quoth  he)  ;  that  longshank'd  Jade  just  now 
(Damn  her!)  hath  hit  me  such  a  blow, 
As  laid  me  senseless  on  the  Clod. 
She  was  with  iron  newly  shod, 
And  't  was  no  writing,  which  I  read,  85 

But  nails  of  steel,  which  broke  my  head." 
He  s,carce  got  cur'd  in  three  weeks  time. 

Thus,  friend,  I  have  own'd  every  crime, 
Which*  I  can  call  to  recollection. 
I'm  ready  to  receive  correction  90 

And  clear  my  conscience,  that  I  may 
With  easy  mind  appear  to-day, 
And  with  your  good  advice,  I  fain 
Will  seek  the  way  to  Grace  again." 


124  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III 

"  Your  sins  are  great  indeed,  (quoth  Gray)  ;   95 
But  since  the  Dead  are  gone  away, 
And  many  things  with  cures  involve  you, 
Of  past  offences  I'll  absolve  you. 
If  you  have  any  thing  to  dread, 
It  is  for  sending  Pussey's  head;  100 

Indeed,  it  was  a  daring  thing, 
That  you  durst  send  it  to  the  King." 

"  Why  now,  (quoth  Reynard),  for  my  part 
I  do  not  take  this  much  to  heart. 
Who  through  this  World  must  fight  his  way,      105 
Can't  mind  his  conscience  every  day. 
I  saw,  the  hare  was  fat  and  good, 
And  fit,  to  yield  the  nicest  food. 
The  Rarn's  blood  out  of  spleen  I  spilt. 
Theirs  was  the  damage;  mine  the  guilt.  110 

I  just  from  Court  came  in  a  pet ; 
What  wonder  then,  that  I  did  fret? 
Though,  to  confess  the  truth  to  Ye, 
It  savour'd  not  of  charity. 

But  very  properly  You  say :  .115 

Those,  who  are  dead,  are  gone  away ; 
Then  let  us  drop  this  odious  matter, 
And  on  some  other  subject  chatter : 
Our  present  times  abound  with  vices, 
Witness,  our  Clergymen's  devices,  120 

Who,  whilst  for  models  they  should  serve, 
Too  often  from  their  duty  swerve. 


CANTO  II.]  THE   JOURNEY.  125 

Nay,  even  our  liege  Lord,  the  King, 
Doth  not  refrain  from  pilfering, 
And  though  not  openly  himself,  125 

He  comes,  to  take  away  our  pelf, 
Yet  Wolves  and  Bears  with  loaves  and  fishes 
Know  mighty  well  to  meet  his  wishes. 
But  still  he  thinks,  this  all  is  fair  ; 
For  none  to  him  the  truth  declare.  130 

Confessors,  Chaplains  and.  their  crew 
Make  him  believe,  't  is  all  his  due, 
And  basely  they  neglect  their  duty, 
Because  they  all  share  in  the  booty  ^ 
"ThougE  't  were  but  for  a  hood,  or  gown.  135 

Poor  Commoners  are  thus  kept  down, 
Unheard,  unjudg'd,  they  must  refrain, 
Of  their  oppressors  to  complain. 
For  since  the  Lion  hath  the  sway, 
And  Bears  and  Wolves  have  won  the  day,         140 
'T  is  honour  thought  by  them  to  steal 
And  prey  upon  the  Common -weal. 
But  if  poor  Reynard  lifts  a  Goose, 
The  hounds  of  Justice  are  let  loose, 
And  :  "  Hang  the  thief,"  and:  "  Crucify,"  145 

Becomes  the  universal  cry. 
For  small  thieves  are  hang'd  out  of  hand/ 
Whilst  wholesale  robbers  rule  the  land.  / 

Such  bad  examples  have  seduc'd  me, 
And  to  foul  play  they  have  induc'd  me,  150 


126  REYNARD    THE   FOX.       ,         [PABT  in. 

Because  I  thought,  what  others  did, 

Was  not  to  me  alone  forbid ; 

And  though  my  conscience  would  at  times, 

Awake,  and  tell  me  of  my  crimes, 

Yet,  when  I  saw,  that  Churchmen  did  155 

Not  always  live,  as  they  were  bid, 

Confirm'd  in  guilt,  no  more  afraid, 

I  carried  on  my  wonted  trade ; 

For  e'en  great  Prelates  now-a-day 

Pon't  always  walk  the  narrow  way.  160 

But  difference  must  be  always  made 
'Twixt  men  and  men  of  every  trade ; 
And  so  't  is  with  the  Clergy  too. 
That  some  are  bad,  is  but  too  true, 

^^^^^^^^MBMMMMM 

But  others,  by  their  conduct,  teach  165 

The  same  good  maxims,  which  they  preach. 

But  is  it  not  a  cruel  thing, 

That  there's  no  end  of  censuring  ? 

What's  good,  we  don't  enquire  about; 

But  what  is  bad,  we  soon  find  out,  1 70 

And  our  delight  is,  to  descry 

The  splinter  in  our  neighbour's  eye. 

Of  this  we  like  to  say  and  sing, 

But  not  to  praise  a  handsome  thing. 

Is  't  wondrous  then,  that  on  our  scurvy  175 

Ant's  hill,  all  things  go  topsy-turvy  ? 

Bad  habits  (th'  adage  says)  are  catching, 

And  are  caught,  like  the  Itch,  by  scratching. 


CANTO  n.]  THE  JOURNEY.  127 

Just  so  the  poor,  unthinking  crowd, 
To  their  own  damage,  rail  aloud  180 

Against  the  morals  of  their  teachers. 
"  If  't  were  all  sin  (they  say),  what  preachers 
Condemn  in  pulpits,  and  exclaim 
Against,  they  would  not  do  the  same." 
Thus,  like  the  silly,  mocking  Apes,  185 

By  mocking  they  get  into  scrapes. 
'T  is  said,  that  on  the  Continent 
Priests-  are  on  fornication  bent, 
Because  theyrre  not  allow'd  to  wed ; 
But,  to  supply  the  nuptial  bed,  190 

They  scrape  together  alms  and  scantlings, 
To  keep  their  wenches,  and  get  bantlings. 
(If  't  is  the  same  with  our's,  or  no, 
Is  more,  than  I  pretend  to  know). 
Their  brats  they  always  to  some  place  195 

Of  trust  and  profit  strive  to  raise, 
And  there  those  puny  bastard-elves 
Are  seen  to  strut,  and  pride  themselves, 
And  of  their  betters  to  take  place, 
As  if  they  were  of  noblest  race.  200 

In  former  times  they  made  less  show, 
But  are  call'd  Lordp  and  Ladies  now ; 
For  money  is  the  paramount, 
And  Priests  at  present  keep  account 
In  many  Realms,  without  control,  205 

Of  land-tax,  poor's  fund,  mint  and  toll. 


128  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  m. 

When  Priests  and  Clerks  themselves  exert, 

Thus  the  poor  lay-men  to  pervert, 

The  Blind  show  to  the  Blind  the  way, 

And  both  of  course  must  go  astray ;  210 

For  good  examples  now  by  few 

Are  minded,  and  the  heedless  crew 

On  wicked  ways  are  most  intent, 

And  seldom  on  good  morals  bent. 

But  after  all,  this  is  not  said,  215 

All  bastard-children  to  degrade. 
Their  parent's  sin  is  not  their  own ; 
But  those,  who  are  for  bastards  known, 
Should  not  behave  presumptuously, 
But  always  show  great  modesty.  220 

If  then  they  're  slander'd  after  all, 
The  shame  will  on  the  sland'rer  fall : 
I  It  is  not  birth,  we  are  to  scan, 
For  virtue  only  makes  the  man. 

A  Clergyman  of  gentle  mood  225 

And  conduct  wise,  can  do  much  good, 
Whilst  others,  who  are  bent  on  vices, 
Mislead  their  flock  to  bad  devices, 
And  though  they  preach  the  purest  lore, 
T  will  be  as  ba'd,  as  't  was  before.  230 

"  What  means  their  preaching  (Laymen  say), 
If  all  their  deeds  their  words  unsay  ? 
Before  their  sermon  they  conclude, 
To  Charity  they  oft  allude, 


CANTO  II.]  THE   JOURNEY.  129 

By  telling  us,  that  money,  spent  235 

In  good  works,  to  the  Lord  is  lent ; 

But  they  will  be  the  last  of  any, 

To  lend  the  Lord  a  single  penny, 

And  ere  a  doit  they  give  the  poor, 

They'll  see  them  starving  at  their  door.  240 

Soft  clothes,  nice  victuals  and  hard  drinking, 

On  such  they  are  forever  thinking ;_ 

A'  bumper  and  a  buxom  Lass 

They  will  prefer  to  saying  Mass." 

A  pious  and  devout  Divine  '-^5 

Won't  deck  himself  with  outward  shine ; 
Righteous  and  meek  he'll  walk  before, 
And  lead  his  flock  to  heaven's  door. 

Not  so  the  lazy  brotherhood, 

Who  wear  a  chaplet,  frock  and  hood,  250 

And  go  from  house  to  house  about, 
The  richest  shriving  to  find  out. 
They'll  cringe  and  fawn,  and  pray  and  whine, 
Till  somebody  ask  them  to  dine ; 
Nay,  if  you  ask  one,  he'll  bring  in  more.  2oo 

There  are  besides  full  half  a  score., 
Who  in  each  Convent  take  the  lead, 
And  on  the  nicest  morsels  feed. 
These  are  preferr'd  before  all  Friars, 
As  Guardians,  Lecturers  and  Priors,  2  GO 

And  when  in  hall  they  dine,  or  sup, 
To  them  the  choicest  is  serv'd  up, 


130  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

Whilst  others  must,  both  night  and  day, 
Read  matins,  bury,  sing  and  pray. 

It  is  the  same  with  the  Pope's  Legates, 2-G5 

With.  Bishops,  Deans  and  other  Prelates. 

E'en  simp'ring  Nuns  like  to  receive, 

But  would  be  very  loth  to  give. 

In  short,  not  two  in  ten  there  are, 

Who  to  fulfil  their  vows  will  care."  270 

Quoth  Gray :  "  My  friend,  you  do  not  well, 
Your  neighbor's  faults  to  me  to  tell ; 
For  't  is  not  worth  to  you  a  pin, 
To  speak  of  ought,  but  your  own  sin. 
Wh'at  bus'ness  have  we  here,  to  ask  27  o 

How  monks  and  nuns  perform  their  task  ? 
Let  them  for  all  such  matters  answer 
To  their  Superiors,  as  they  can,  Sir. 
Meantime  I  freely  will  confess 
That  many  things  you  shrewdly  guess  ;  280 

And  all  your  observations  show 
How^welljthe  ways  of  men  you  know. 
It  might  not  be  at  all  amiss, 
If  we  to  you  were  to  confess ; 
For  many  Clerks,  as  well  as  I,  28  > 

Might  for  advice  to  you  apply." 

When  of  the  Court  they  now  got  sight, 
Reynard  Was  seiz'd  with  sudden  fright. 
But  Pug  the  monkey  met  him  there, 
And  in  great  part  reliev'd  his  care.  20U 


CANTO  II.]       •  THE   JOURNEY.  131 

Something  of  Reynard's  case  he  knew ; 

To  help  him  further  to  the  clue, 

Reynard  said :  "  Fortune  hath  of  late 

Show'd  me  the  bald  part  of  her  pate. 

Some  rogues,  whoever  they  may  be,  295 

Have  grievously  complain'd  of  me : 

The  Crow  hath  lost  his  wife  I  hear ; 

The  Rabbit  says  I  cropt  his  ear. 

But  if  I  could  approach  the  King ; 

It  should  not  avail  them  any  thing.  300 

I  am  however  much  afflicted, 

That  by  the  Pope  I'm  interdicted ; 

For  on  that  score,  I  know  the  Dean 

Traduc'd  me  before  the  King  and  Queen. 

All  this  for  Growler's  sake  I  suffer ;  305 

For  I  help'd  that  ungrateful  buffer 

When  to  his  heels  the  vagrant  took, 

And  wantonly  his  cell  forsook. 

'T  was  I,  who  set  the  ruffian  free, 

When  tir'd  of  fasts  and  chastity ;  310 

And  now,  for  payment  of  my  pain, 

The  wretch  with  all  his  might  and  main, 

Decries  me,  and  tries  every  thing, 

To  make  me  odious  to  the  King. 

If  I'm  oblig'd  to  go  to  Rome,  315 

I  much  fear  for  my  wife  at  home, 

To  whom  he  will,  with  all  his  clan, 

Do  as  much  mischief,  as  he  can. 


132  REYXARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

But  if,  from  th'  interdict  releas'd 

My  mind  and  conscience  were  appeas'd,  320 

In  better  spirits  I,  to  plead 

My  cause  at  Court,  could  now  proceed." 

Quoth  Pug :  "  I'm  going  straight  to  Rome  ; 
Then,  if  you  wish  to  stay  at  home, 
Intrust  your  bus'ness  but  to  me,  32-~> 

And  in  the  best  hands  it  shall  be. 
You  know,  our  Bishop's  clerk  I  was, 
And  all  things  through  my  hands  did  pass : 
In  spite  of  Bishops  and  of  Deans, 
To  serve  you  well,  I  have  the  means.  330 

My  worthy  friend  and  uncle  Simon, 
Whqjs  a  pow'rful  and  a  sly  man, 
Hath  every  thing  at  his  command, 
And  will  help  those,  who  fill  his  hand. 
Nay,  he  i.s  not  the  only  friend,  330 

On  whom  at  Rome  I  can  depend ; 
There's  Doctor  Wrest,  and  bach'lor  Civil, 
Who'll  gain  a  supper  from  the  devil, 
And  both  will  follow,  while  we've  money, 
As  busily,  as  flies  do  honey.  3  40 

The  proverb  says,  and  all  men  know : 
'  T  is  money  makes  the  Mare  go. 
Whilst  of  your  job  I  shall  take  care, 
To  Court  meantime  you  may  repair. 
There  mistress  Pry,  my  wife,  you'll  find,  340 

To  whom  the  King  and  Queen  are  kind, 


CAXTO  II.]  THE   JOURNEY.  133 

Because  she's  of  a  gay  deport. 

Apply  to  her  but  for  support, 

And  readily  she'll  grant  it  you. 

Her  sisters,  and  our  children  too,  350 

And  many  of.  your  own  relations 

Will  strive,  to  screen  you  from  vexations. 

If  after  all  you  don't  succeed, 

Let  me  but  know  of  it  with  speed, 

And  the  Pope's  ban  shall  be  inflicted,  355 

And  King  and  Country  interdicted. 

The  Pope  is  old  and  sick,  and  cares 
But  little  about  all  affairs  ; 
But  there  's  a  jolly  Cardinal, 

Hight  Bonnyblade,  who  governs  all.  3  GO 

I  know  a  pretty,  buxom  Lass, 
With  whom  his  evenings  he  doth  pass : 
To  all  requests,  which  she  presents, 
He  always  readily  consents. 

Sir  Pinchpenny  and  Doctor  Hoard  3G5 

Sit  both  at  the  spiritual  board, 
And  those,  who  do  not  grease  their  paw, 
Are  sure  to  be  denied  the  law. 
These  are  the  men,  who  shall  forgive  you, 
And  from  the  interdict  relieve  you.  370 

The  King  will  shortly  be  aware, 
That  I'm  befriending  your  affair. 
He  knows  that  I  negotiate 
All  matters  well  in  Church,  or  State. 


134  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  m. 

Consid'ring  that,  he'll  not  oppress  you ;  375 

Therefore  have  courage  friend.     God  bless  you ! 

This  said,  they  pai'ted  on  the  spot, 
And  each  his  different  way  did  trot. 


CANTO  III— THE  ADVOCACY. 


ARGUMENT. 

Reynard,  when  question'd  by  the  King, 
Denies  with  boldness  every  thing. 
The  King  is  wroth ;  but  mistress  Pry, 
The  monkey's  wife,  of  conduct  sly, 
Tells  him,  to  bring  his  anger  down, 
A  story  of  a  Snake  and  Clown; 
On  which  the  King,  returning  back, 
Grants  Reynard  leave  again  to  clack. 

WHEN  Reynard  came  again  to  Court, 
He  did  affect  a  steady  port, 
And  through  the  crowd  he  made  his  way, 
Attended  by  his  nephew  Gray  ; 
But  seeing,  to  his  great  regret,  a 

That  all  around  he  was  beset 
By  those,  who  wish'd  to  see  him  fall, 
His  courage  fail'd  him  after  all ; 
When  Gray,  his  friend,  him  thus  admonish'd : 
"  Reynard,  (he  said),  be  not  astonish'd.  10 

[1351 


136  REYNARD   THE   FOX.  [PART  HI. 

Fortune's  a  woman,  then  be  steady, 

For  faint  heart  never  won  fair  lady." 

Reynard  thank'd  him,  and  looking  round 

Once  more,  he  to  his  comfort  found, 

That  though  his  foes  did  crowd  the  hall,  In 

The  number  likewise  was  not  small 

Of  those,  on  whom  he  could  depend, 

His  cause  and  int'rest  to  befriend. 

He  then  advanc'd,  and  bending  knee, 
"  God  save  the  King  and  Queen  !  (quoth  he),      20 
And  send  them  wisdom,  to  determine 
'Twixt  trusty  folks  and  lying  vermin ; 
For  it  is  difficult,  to  trace 
Low  minds  below  a  fawning  face. 
I  wish,  all  hearts  were  made  of  glass,  '25 

That  one  might  see  what  there  doth  pass ; 
You  then  would  be  convinc'd,  liege  Lord,   . 
That  I  speak  truth  in  every  word. 
You'd  see  how  faithful  and  how  true 
I  have  been  all  along  to  you.  30 

Here  I  by  many  am  abus'd, 
And  have  been  slandrously  accus'd, 
Because  to  hurt  me,  they  endeavour, 
And  to  deprive  me  of  your  favour. 
But  I  am  sure,  you  are  too  wise,  3"> 

Not  to  discern  what  they  devise. 
My  cause  I'm  ready  to.  defend, 
And  on  your  Justice  I  depend." 


CASTO  III.]  THE   ADVOCACY.  137 

"  Your  fawning  speeches  (quoth  the  King) 
Shall  not  avail  you  any  thing.  40 

You  have  put  many  tricks  on  me, 
But  of  no  use  they  now  shall  be ; 
For  though  you  play  your  pranks  with  art, 
You  are  a  villain  in  your  heart. 
We  daily  hear  complaints  of  you ;  45 

What  with  the  old,  what  with  the  new, 
(Witness  the  Rabbit  and  the  Crow) 
Your  rogueries  too  well  we  know." 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  Nay,  upon  my  word, 
You  have  been  mis-inform'd,  My  Lorfl.  50 

Hear  me,  and  if  you  can  deny 
That  I  am  guiltless,  let  me  die. 
You  know  that  I  with  rede  *  and  deed 
Have  serv'd  you  oft  in  time  of  need ; 
Nay,  I  have  oft  kept  watch  for  you  55 

(Of  which  your  Highness  little  knew), 
Whilst  you  were  basely  left  by  those, 
Who  now  between  us  interpose. 
Nay,  if  my  conscience  bade  me  fear, 
Before  my  Judges  to  appear,  60 

I  might  have  staid  in  peace  at  home, 
And  should  not  now  to  Court  have  come. 


*  Rede  ( Sax.  reed)  Counsel,  advice.  The  word  is  obsolete; 
but  like  many  other  quaint  expressfons  it  suits  the  humour  of 
the  comic  poem. 


138  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

For  when  my  worthy  cousin  Gray 

Came  to  inform  me  yesterday, 

That  to  this  place  I  must  repair,  f>;"> 

I  was  just  going  to  prepare 

For  goiug  to  the  holy  See. 

But  Pug,  my  cousin,  met  with  me, 

And  told  me,  he  himself  with  speed 

To  Rome  was  going  to  proceed,  7*' 

And  If  I  wish'd  to  come  to  Court, 

My  case  at  Rome  he  would  report. 

As  soon  as  I  was  here  arriv'd, 
I  heard,  my  eifemies  contriv'd, 
My  reputation  to  attack,  7>~) 

And  slander  me  behind  my  back ; 
For  to  the  Rabbit  and  the  Crow 
Much  friendship  I  did  always  show. 
Instead  of  thanks,  they  now  traduced  me, 
And  falsely  of  great  crimes  accused  me.  80 

Be  pleas'd  to  know,  that  some  days  past, 
Whilst  I,  just  after  breaking  fast, 
Read  morning-pray'r  before  my  burrow. 
The  Rabbit  came,  and  said :  "  Good  morrow  !  " 
I  friendly  ask'd,  which  way  he  went.  8"> 

"  To  Court  (said  he)  my  course  is  bent." 
I  saw,  that  he  did  pant  and  sweat, 
And  ask'd,  if  he  would  take  a  whet. 
He  gladly  did  accept  my  offer, 
And  I  as  readily  did  proffer  i)0 


CANTO  HI.]  THE    ADVOCACY.  139 

New  bread  and  fish,  and  fruit  and  curds, 

Such  as  a  country-house  affords. 

When  he  had  eat  his  fill  of  fish, 

My  youngest  boy  long'd  for  the  dish, 

(You  know,  at  any  time  of  day  95 

Young  brats  are  fond  of  food  and  play)  ; 

But  with  a  blow  th'  ungrateful  clown 

Knock'd  the  poor  harmless  infant  down. 

When  this  my  eldest  son  perceiv'd, 

His  little  brother  he  reliev'd,  100 

And  pull'd  the  bumpkin  by  his  beard. 

To  quell  their  fray,  I  interfer'd  ; 

Or  else  the  blockhead  in  the  strife 

Deserv'dly  might  have  lost  his  life. 

Now  he  would  fain  make  it  appear,  105 

That  I  on  purpose  cropt  his  ear. 

The  Crow  came  on  another  day, 
And  in  a  seeming  great  dismay 
He  told  me,  he  had  lost  his  wife. 
"  A  fish  (he  said)  hath  cost  her  life  ;  1  K> 

For  with  the  bones  she  swallow'd  it, 
And  suddenly  died  in  a  fit." 
He  must  know  best,  how  this  befell  her, 
The  rascal  says  that  I  did  kill  her ; 
But,  -may  be,  if  the  truth  was  known,  115 

These  were  some  doings  of  his  own. 
If  I  had  leave,  the  rogue  to  question, 
He  soon  should  make  a  full  confession. 


140  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

What  means  to  catch  a  Crow,  have  I, 

While  I'm  a-foot  and  Crows  can  fly  ?  1 20 

If  any  body  else  is  here, 
Who  by  witnesses  makes  it  appear, 
That  I  have  wrong'd  him,  I'm  his  man  ; 
Let  him  convict  me,  if  he  can  ; 
Or  else  I'll  meet  him  in  the  field  125 

With  lance  and  target,  sword  and  shield  ; 
There  let  it  be  by  single  figfiP 
Determin'd,  who  is  wrong,  who  right. 
Such  is  the  ancient,  standing  Law, 
In  which  I  will  not  make  a  flaw."  130 

All  those,  who  in  the  hall  stood  near  him, 
Were  very  much  surpris'd  to  hear  him. 
The  Crow  and  Rabbit  stood  amaz'd, 
And  on  the  daring  liar  gaz'd. 

•'The  devil  take  this  treach'rous  wight  135 

(Said  they)  ;  he  calls  us  out,  to  fight ; 
.    But  ten  of  us  durst  not  attack  him, 
And  as  to  witnesses,  (plague  rack  him  !) 
He  knows,  that  none  we  can  produce  ; 
Therefore  to  plead,  is  of  no  use,  140 

For  the  arch  rogue  would  overreach 
Us  all,  by  dint  of  subtle  speech." 
Thus  their  lost  labour  they  did  rue, 
And  forthwith  from  the  Court  withdrew. 

Growler  and  Brown  were  very  loth  145 

To  see  these  plaintiffs  sheer  off  both  ; 


CAHTO  m.]  THE   ADVOCACY.  141 

^ 

For  now  the  King  call'd  out  aloud  : 

"  Pray,  what's  become  of  all  the  crowd, 

Who  against  Reynard  did  appear? 

Why  don't  they  speak,  while  he  is  here  ?  "          150 

"  I  will  explain  it,  Sir,  to  you 
(Said  Reynard)  ;  for  't  is  nothing  new, 
Those,  who  set  up  the  loudest  clack 

*  Against  you,  while  you  turn  your  back, 

Will  sneak  off,  when  your  face  you  show,  155 

Just*like  the  Rabbit  and  the  Crow, 
Who  absent  brought  me  into  blame, 
But  tamely  sheer'd  off,  when  I  came. 
'T  is  not  on  my  account,  My  Lord, 

-  That  I  dare  to  put  in  a  word,  160 
(For  I'm  worth  little  to  the  State)  : 

But  if  such  rogues  were  left  to  prate, 
They'd  slander  many,  who  are  true, 
And  faithfully  attach'd  to  you." 

"  May  be  't  is  so,  (said  the  King)  ;  1 65 

But  answer  me  another  thing, 
Vile  thief  and  felon,  as  you  are ! 
What  made  you  kill  poor  Puss,  the  Hare  ? 
When  last  I  granted  you  my  pardon, 
And  made  you  put  a  pilgrim's  garb  on,  170 

Did  not  you  promise,  out  of  hand 
To  travel  to  the  holy  land, 
And  coming  back,  to  go  to  Rome, 
Palms  and  indulgence  to  bring  home  ? 


142  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  III. 

» 

It  was  in  hopes  to  see  you  mend,  175 

That  I  your  purpose  did  befriend. 

How  durst  you  then  that  very  day, 

To  take  my  servant's  life  away  ? 

For  my  own  Chaplain  Simple,  marry ! 

The  message  of  her  death  did  carry.  180 

Her  head  he  brought  me  in  a  bag, 

And  had  the  impudence,  to  brag, 

Of  letters,  which,  though  you  did  write  them, 

He  had  assisted,  to  indite  them. 

Thus  by  your  daring  insolence  185 

You  both  have  heigh ten'd  your  offence, 

For  which  the  Ram  receiv'd  his  due ; 

He  lost  his  life,  and  so  shall  you." 

"  Is't  possible,  that  Puss  is  dead 
(Cried  Reynard,  lifting  up  his  head),  190 

And  Simple  too  ?     Then  I'm  forlorn, 
And  wish,  I  never  had  been  born  ; 
For  I  have  lost  the  greatest  treasure, 
And  am  left  to  repent  at  leisure, 
That  by  him,  whom  I  thought  my  friend,  195 

The  rarest  jewels  I  did  send. 
'T  is  clear,  that  for  the  sake  of  gain 
Poor  Pussey  by  the  Ram  was  slain." 

The  King  did  not  pay  much  attention 
To  any  thing,  the  Fox  did  mention  ;  200 

For  on  revenge  his  mind  was  bent, 
And  to  his  rooms  away  he  went. 


CANTO  m.]  THE   ADVOCACY.  143 

The  Queen  was  sitting  there  with  Pry, 

Who  in  her  favour  did  stand  high  ; 

And  with  her  parts  and  ready  Wit  205 

The  King  too  was  a  little  smit ; 

To  whom,  as  soon  as  he  came  in, 

She  said  with  a  submissive  mien : 

"  Don't  be  to  Reynard  so  unkind, 

My  Liege.     If  you'll  recall  to  mind  21  < 

What  services  you  have  receiv'd 

From  his  late  father,  while  he  liv'd, 

And  that  to  me  he's  near  a-kin, 

You'll  overlook  some  trifling  sin. 

You  see,  he  doth  not  shun  the  Law,  215 

And  heretofore  we  often  saw, 

That  he  is  better  skill'd  in  it, 

Than  Wolves  and  Bears,  with  all  their  wit." 

"  Pray,  is  it  then  a  trifling  thing, 
Which  stirs  my  anger  ?  (said  the  King).  '2'20 

Did  he  not  lately  kill  the  Hare, 
And  draw  the  Ram  into  his  snare  ? 
Are  not  his  crimes  the  general  cry  ?  " 

"May  be,  not  all  is  true,  (said  Pry). 
Reynard  is  very  shrewd  and  smart ;  225 

Which  many  envy  in  their  heart. 
You  must  remember,  I  dare  say, 
How  a  poor  hind  complain'd  one  day, 
That  a  snake  did  attempt  his,  life. 
Nobody  then  could  quell  their  strife,  2o<> 


144  BEYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III. 

Till  Reynard  came,  and  judg'd  the  cause, 
And  met  from  you  with  great  applause." 

"  Yes,  I  remember  such  a  thing, 
But  not  exactly,  (said  the  King). 
I  wish,  you  would  the  case  relate,  235 

"Which,  I  believe,  was  intricate." 

Quoth  Pry  :  "  'T  is  now  about  a  year, 
That  the  said  Serpent  did  appear, 
And  brought  a  Countryman  before  you. 
The  Snake  for  justice  did  implore  you,  240 

Because  the  man  was  obstinate, 
A  Jury's  verdict  to  debate. 

The  Snake,  in  creeping  through  a  gap, 
Fell,  as  it  seems,  into  a  trap, 

And  loud  for  help  began  to  cry.  2-i") 

The  Countryman  by  chance  pass'd  by, 
To  whom  he  call'd:  "  Have  pity,  pray, 
Nor  take  a  harmless  life  away." 

The  man  replied :  "  I'll  set  you  free, 
If  on  your  oath  you  promise  me,  2/>0 

On  all  occasions  to  refrain 
From  hurting  me."     The  Snake  was  fain 
To  swear ;  on  which  the  man  untied  him ; 
But  soon  great  ill-luck  did  betide  him. 
Whilst  they  together  walk'd  along,  25.1 

The  Snake,  with  hunger  being  stung, 
With  fury  at  the  man  did  snap, 
But  he  escap'd  him  by  good  hap. 


CANTO  III.]  THE    ADVOCACY.  145 

« 

"  Is  this  (quoth  he)  an  honest  way, 

Men  for  good  services  to  pay  ?  260 

Was  it  for  this,  I  made  you  swear, 

To  injure  me,  you  would  forbear?" 

"  I'm  faint  with  hunger  (said  the  Snake)  ; 
Necessity  all  Laws  will  break." 

The  man  then  begg'd  for  a  respite,  265 

Till  they  could  both  the  case  recite 
To  some  impartial  Judge.     The  Snake 
To  this  did  no  objection  make. 
Together  they  again  walk'd  on, 
And  met  the  Raven  and  his  son,  270 

To  whom  the  Snake  did  his  debate 
With  the  poor  Countryman  relate. 
They  hoped  to  come  in  for  a  share, 
And  said :  "  You  need  not  him  to  spare." 

"  You  can  not  (said  the  Snake)  dispute  275 

My  right  now,  and  I'vfe  gain'd  the  suit." 

"  No,  't  is  not  so  far  gone,  (said  he), 
That  thieves  should  judge  'twixt  you  and  me, 
Besides,  there  should  at  least  be  four 
To  weigh  the  matter,  if  not'  more."  280 

"  'T  is  very  well,"  the  Snake  replied, 
Who  straight  the  Wolf  and  Bear  espied, 
And-  said  that  umpires  they  should  be. 

The  Countryman  thought :  "  Woe  on  me ! 
Four  greedy  rogues  I  see  before  me,  285 

10 


143  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  1IL 

Who  all  are  eager  to  devour  me, 

Two  Ravens,  and  the  Wolf  and  Bear." 

And  too  well  founded  was  his  fear ; 

For  they  declar'd,  all  in  one  breath, 

The  Snake  might  put  the  man  to  death,  290 

Making  necessity  a  Law,  , 

In  which  this  murder  made  no  flaw. 

The  Snake  now  like  an  arrow  shot 
At  him,  to  kill  him  on  the  spot ; 
But  he  escap'd  a  second  time,  29o 

And  cried  :  "  It  is  a  heinous  crime, 
That  you  by  dint  of  foulest  play, 
Attempt  to  take  my  life  away, 
To  which  you  have  no  sort  of  right." 
"  Who  says  so?  (quoth  the  Snake),  base  wight !    300 
Have  not  you  twice  been  sentenc'd,  Sir  ?  " 

"  Yes,  (said  he),  by  the  Wolf  and  Bear, 
Who  like  to  murder  and  to  steal  ; 
But  to  the  King  I  do  appeal. 
Come  with  me,  and  let  him  decide,  305 

And  by  his  sentence  I'll  abide'; 
Be't  right  or  wrong,  I  will  not  mind^ 
And  to  my  fate  I'll  be  resign'd." 

"  To  this  the  Snake  will  not  object," 
Quoth  Growler;  for  he  did  expect  310 

That  you,  my  Liege,  would  cook  the  dish 
For  them,  according  to  their  wish. 


CANTO  in.]  THE    ADVOCACY.  147 

They  all  before  you  did  appear, 

The  Snake,  the  Ravens,  Wolf  and  Bear, 

And  some  of  them  brought  all  their  Clan,          315 

In  hopes  of  feasting  on  the  man  ; 

But  Growler's  whelps  made  such  a  rout, 

That  from  the  Court  you  drove  them  out. 

The  Man  for  Justice  did  implore  you, 
And  laid  his  cruel  case  before  you :  320 

That,  whilst  from  death  he  sav'd  the  snake, 
His  life  he  now  away  would  take. 

The  Snake  the  truth  of  this  confess'd ; 
But  said,  he  was  by  hunger  press'd. 

You  weigh'd  the  Case  of  both  maturely :        325 
To  doom  the  Man  to  death,  was  surely 
For  a  kind  act  a  bad  reward. 
To  starve  (you  thought)  was  likewise  hard. 
This  to  your  Barons  you  did  state, 
Who  went,  the  matter  to  debate.  330 

Most  of  them  were  too  much  inclin'd 
To  condemn  and  devour  the  hind ; 
But  you  for  Reynard  sent  at  last, 
And  telling  him  all,  that  had  pass'd, 
You  left  the  Case  to  his  decision.  335 

He  said :  "  To  judge  with  due  precision, 
I  first  must  see  the  Serpent  bound 
At  the  same  place,  where  he  was  found." 
This  done,  quoth  Reynard :  "  Now  they  are 
On  the  same  footing,  as  they  were.  340 


148  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  III 

The  Man  hath  now  the  choice,  to  take 

An  oath  from  him,  and  save  the  Snake ; 

But  if  he  leaves  him  where  he  is, 

He  likewise  will  not  do  amiss. 

This,  (with  all  def'rence  for  a  better)  345 

Is  my  opinion  of  the  matter." 

You  with  this  judgment  were  contented, 
And  all  your  Barons  too  assented 
The  Man  was  set  at  liberty, 
And  humbly  thank'd  your  Majesty."  350 

The  Queen  was  glad,  to  second  Pry. 
"  Reynard  (she  said)  is  shrewd  and  sly ; 
Growler  and  Brown  are  blust'ring  bullies, 
But  as  to  sense,  they  are  mere  cullies ; 
They'll  be  the  first  at  every  feast,  355 

But  in  the  field  they're  last  and  least, 
And  though  like  champions  they  appear, 
In  fight  they  tarry  in  the  rear. 
These  Wolves  and  Bears  are  fierce  and  savage, 
And  only  like  to  sack  and  ravage.  360 

To  warm  themselves,  they  would  desire 
To  see  their  neighbor's  house  on  fire, 
And  if  they  can  but  fill  their  gullet, 
They  will  not  leave  the  poor  a  pullet. 
But  Reynard  and  his  kin  are  true,  365 

And  faithfully  attach'd  to  you. 
If  any  thing  he  hath  misdone, 
Consider,  he's  not  made  of  stone  ; 


CANTO  III.]  THE    ADVOCACY.  149 

And  at  the  same  time  you  will  grant, 

That  his  advice  we  often  •want.  370 

Then  please  to  show  him  mercy,  p^ay."        . 

The  King  replied :  "  I'll  not  say  nay. 
'T  is  true,  he  did  decide  the  cause, 
Which  you  related,  with  applause  ; 
But  he  's  a  deep  one  in  his  heart,  375 

And  often  makes  those  people  smart, 
Who  deal  with  him ;  the  Wolf,  the  Bear, 
The  Crow,  the  Cat,  the  Ram,  the  Hare 
And  many  more.     One  lost  his  life,. 
One  lacks  an  ear,  and  one  his  wife.  380 

Then  tell  me  pray,  on  what  pretence 
T  am  to  pardon  his  offence." 

"  'T  is  not  his  innocence  we  plead ; 
(Said  she)  ;  as  friends  we  intercede." 
The  King  stept  back  into  the  hall,  385 

Where  Reynard's  Kinsmen,  great  and  small, 
Their  cousin  to  support,  were  met. 
He  found,  they  were  a  num'rous  set ; 
But  full  as  many  in  the  hall 
Did  not  befriend  the  Fox  at  all.  390 

"  Reynard,  (said  he),  how  did  you  dare, 
To  kill  my  messenger,  the  Hare  ? 
And  to  induce  the  silly  Ram, 
To  bring  her  head  here  for  a  sham  ? 
For  nothing  else  was  in  the  sack,  395 

Which  Simple  carried  on  his  back." 


150  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  III. 

"Alas  !  (said  Reynard),  woe  betide  me! 
I  wish  the  grave  did  long  since  hide  me. 
But  if  .to  hear  me  you  consent, 
I  trust  you'll  find  me  innocent.  400 

The  Ram,  that  thief  and  murderer, 
Hath  robb'd  me  of  a  treasure,  Sir, 
The  like  of  which  could  not  be  found, 
If  you  walk'd  all  the  World  around. 
These  treasures,  which  I  did  intend  40') 

To  send  to  you,  caus'd  Pussy's  end, 
Whom  Simple  on  the  road  did  slay. 
And  with  the  jewels  made  away. 
Oh !  that  we  could  but  find  them  out ; 
But  this  I  have  no  hopes  about."  410 

"  If  they  are  but  above  the  ground 
(Said  Pry),  I  hope  they  will  be  found. 
Pray  tell  us  of  what  kind  they  were, 
And  we'll  search  for  them  every  where." 

"  All  labor  will  in  vain  be  spent,  415 

(Quoth  he)  ;  they  are  so  excellent. 
That  their  possessors  for  their  heart, 
Would  not  consent  with  them  to  part. 
If  this  affair  is  told  my  wife, 

It  will  occasion  endless  strife ;  420 

For  she  by  no  means  would  consent, 
That  by  the  Ram  they  should  be  sent. 
Here  I  am  doom'd  to  lose  my  time, 
Though  innocent  of  any  crime; 


CANTO  III.]  THZ    ADVOCACY.  151 

But  if  from  hence  I  get  away,  425 

Through  every  Country  I  will  stray, 
And  though  my  life  it  were  to  cost, 
I'll  try  to  find  what  I  have  lost." 


PART  IV. 
CANTO  I.  — THE   SECOND   PARDOX. 


A  UGUMKNT. 

A  long  account  we  now  shall  hear, 
Which  Reynard  gave  of  jewels  dear, 
A  precious  Mirror,  Comb  and  King, 
Sent  by  him  to  the  Queen  anil  King. 
The  Kins  to  him  his  p-.irdon  grants, 
At  which  the  angry  Growler  rants. 
He  will  not  hear  of  a  discharge, 
Till  Keynard  answers  to  his  charge. 

••  T)ERMIT  me,  for  my  consolation. 

JL      (Quoth  Reynard),  in  a  short  relation, 
To  tell  my  friends  how  rich  and  dear 
The  jewels  were  which  I  sent  hereVV 
And  which  you  never  did  receive."  •"> 

"  Make  haste,  (said  Noble)  you  have  leave." 

"  The  first  (quoth  Reynard)  was  a  Ring, 
To  be  presented  to  the  King. 
Of  precious  things  it  was  compos'd, 
And  hidden  powers  it  inclos'd ;  10 

[152] 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  153 

For  on  the  inside  (please  to  know) 

Some  words  enamel'd  it  did  show, 

Which  to  explain  nobody  knew, 

But  Abram  Treves,  a  German  Jew, 

Who  could  all  foreign  Lingo's  prate  15 

From  Gravesend  up  to  Billingsgate ; « 

And  beside  that,  he  was  expert 

In  every  deep  and  magic  art. 

To  him  this  Ring  I  once  did  show. 

•'  Maishter,  (quoth  he),  I  let  you  know,  20 

Dis  is  a  varry  vondrous  Ring ; 

I  never  saw  more  curioush  ting, 

Be  vords  which  are  in  lashure  set, 

Were  brought  from  Paradise  by  Sheth. 

Tree  names  are  dere  in  Hebrew  written ;  25 

Deir  owner  never  can  be  shmitten 

Vith  foul  disease  ;  from  magic  spell 

And  tuuder  it  secures  him  well ; 

He  can't  be  shtarv'd  by  heat  or  cold. 

And  tousaud  yearsh  he  may  grow  old."  30 

The  Ring  inclos'd  a  curious  stone, 
Which  bright  like  any  lantern  shone ; 
Carbuncle  I  believe,  't  is  hight, 
It  blaz'd  like  flaming  coal  at  night, 
And -strangest  virtues  it  possess'd :  35 

Those  who  by  sickness  were  oppress'd, 
If  they  but  touch'd  this  wondrous  stone, 
Their  pain  was  in  a  moment  gone. 


154  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  TV. 

Whoever  wore  it  on  his  hand, 

Could  walk  on  seas  as  on  dry  land ;  40 

From  fire  he  nothing  had  to  fear ; 

His  enemies  durst  not  come  near, 

For  like  the  Gorgon  shield  in  fight, 

It  screen'd  him  by  its  dazzling  light ; 

And  if  attack'd  by  whole  battalions,  45 

He  could  drub  them  like  tatterdemalions, 

Nor  pois'nous  draft,  nor  magic  charm 

Could  kill  him,  nor  could  do  him  harm. 

If  any  one  to  hurt  him  strove, 

It  chang'd  his  hatred  into  love.  50 

In  short  I  never  should  have  done, 

Telling  the  virtues  of  this  stone. 

I  did  select  it  from  my  treasure, 

Because  I  thought  't  would  give  you  pleasure, 

And  that  nobody  but  our  King,  55 

Deserv'd  to  wear  this  precious  thing. 

You  are  the  Noblest  of  us  all, 

And  so  may  good  luck  you  befall, 

As  it  was  with  a  pure  intent, 

That  I  to  you  this  jewel  sent.  GO 

A^Comb_ And  Mirror  should  have  been 
Delivered  to  our  gracious  Queen. 
My  Liege,  I  am  asham'd  to  say, 
That  with  my  wife  I  had  a  fray, 
Because  it  griev'd  her  very  heart,  65 

With  those  two  fav'rite  toys  to  part. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  155 

Xow  they  are  lost  to  all  intent, 

And  what  I'm  left  most  to  lament, 

Is  that  they  were  not  even  seen, 

Or  heard  of  by  our  noble  Queen,  70 

Who,  whilst  you  were  so  much  offended, 

To  plead  for  me  hath  condescended. 

The  Comb,  with  golden  wire  inlaid, 
Of  bone  of  Civet-cat  was  made. 
This  wild  Cat  of  a  curious  kind  75 

On  Indian  plains  we  only  find. 
All  other  Creatures  love  it  well, 
On  account  of  its  balmy  smell. 
This  odour,  when  the  beast  expires, 
Into  the  bones  of  it  retires,  80 

"Which  from  corruption  it  preserves  ; 
Its  dung  too  for  perfume  oft  serves. 
Of  such  a  bone  (as  I  have  said) 
The  Comb  was  beautifully  made, 
And  with  amazing  art  and  cost  85 

With  half-rais'd  work  it  was  emboss'd. 

There  you  could  see  the  famous  story 
Of  Paris,  in  his  days  of  glory, 
When  three  Goddesses  for  a  whim, 
Came  down  to  be  review'd  by  him.  90 

For  Juno,  Jove's  majestic  Dame, 
Pallas,  his  daughter  of  known  fame, 
And  sea-born  Venus,  Queen  of  love, 
To  claim  a  golden  Apple  strove ; 


156  REYNARD   THE   FOX.  [PART  IV. 

But  as  they  never  could  agree,  95 

They  now  to  him  repair'd  all  three.  •  .         , 

The  Fairest  was  to  have  the  fruit, 

And  he  was  to  decide  their  suit. 

Sir  Paris  thought  the  case  too  nice, 

To  be  determin'd  in  a  trice,  100 

And  ere  he  ventur'd  to  decide, 

He  took  them  one  by  one  aside. 

"  I'm  sure  (said  Juno  with  an  air), 
Your  eyes  must  see  that  I'm  most  fair ; 
But  to  reward  you  for  your  pain,  105 

Great  riches  you  for  me  shall  gain." 

"  Give  me  the  apple  with"  good  grace, 
(Quoth  Pallas  with  a  prudish  face). 
You  know,  't  is  not  a  haughty  air, 
But  prudence,  which  adorns  the  Fair.  110 

Then  if  to  me  you  give  my  due, 
Wisdom  and  pow'r  I'll  grant  to  you." 

"  Let  not  (said  Venus  with  a  smile) 
Or  pow'r,  or  riches  you  beguile. 
Your  father  Priam  is  a  King,  115 

Who  hath  enough  of  every  thing; 
And  as  to  warfare  and  such  pother, 
You  have  got  Hector  for  a  brother, 
On  whom  in  wars  you  can  rely, 
And  all  your  enemies  defy.  120 

If  in  my  favour  you  decide, 
I  shall  present  you  with  a  bride 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  157 

Most  lovely,  Menelaus's  Dame 
•Of  Greece  ;  fair  Helen  is  her  name. 
She's  handsome,  of  the  noblest  race,  125 

Endow'd  with  beauty  and  with  grace ; 
And  you'll  allow  that  such  a  wife 
Will  be  the  blessing  of  your  life. 
Take  her  and  give  the  prize  to  me" 
"  Here  't  is  with  all  my  heart,"  said  he.  130 

•  \[enus_made  good  to  him  her  word, 
And  help'd  him,  from  her  Grecian  Lord 
To  steal  fair  Helen,  and  with  joy 
He  carried  off  his  bride  to  Troy. 

All  this  did  on  my  Comb  appear,  135 

And  was  with  labels  made  more  clear ; 
For  at  the  foot  of  each  fair  Dame 
You  read  her  speech,  and  eke  her  name. 

The  Mirror  was  the  last  and  best, 
By  much  excelling  all  the  rest.  140 

A  Beryl  serv'd  instead  of  glass. 
It  show'd  all  things  which  came  to  pass, 
Within  a  dozen  miles  around. 
Besides,  if  any  one  was  found, 
Who  on  his  eye  a  speck  had  got,  145 

Or  in  his  face  a  pimpled  spot, 
\  peep  into  this  glass  was  sure 
To  prove  an  instantaneous  cure. 
The  frame,  in  which  the. Mirror  stood, 
Was  of  the  choicest  Shittim-wood.  150 


158  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  IV. 

No  worms  this  fragrant  wood  attack, 

Nor  is  it  apt  to  warp  and  crack,  » 

Aiid  therefore  't  is  not  to  be  sold 

For  less,  than  its  own  weight  in  gold.  • 

Like  Ebony  't  is  black  and  bright,  loo 

Solid  and  firm  bnt  wondrous  light, 

And  of  the  same  wood,  (so  't  is  said) 

That  famous  saddle-horse  was  made, 

On  which  with  Magellona  fair 

Count  Peter  canter'd  through  the  air.  160 

This  frame  was  carv'd  most  curiously : 

Each  part  displayed  some  history, 

Or  fable,  which  below  was  told, 

In  letters  cast  of  purest  gold. 

The  first  partition  show'd  a  Nag,  165 

Who  to  a  Hind  betray'd  a  Stag. 
It  was  the  swiftness  of  the  Hart, 
Which  kindled  envy  in  his  heart ; 
He  therefore  went  and  told  the  Hind : 
"  Get  on  my  back,  and  we  shall  find  170 

A  mighty  Stag  in  yonder  grounds, 
As  fat,  as  e'er  was  chas'd  by  hounds. 
I'll  take  you  to  the  copse  anon, 
And  you  shall  get  nice  venison." 

The  Hind  did  mount  and  off  they  went,          175 
And  of  the  Stag  they  soon  got  scent ; 
The  hounds  him  follow'd  in  full  cry  ; 
The  Stag  o'er  hill  and  dale  did  fly. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PAKDON.  159 

And  being  vigorous  and  strong, 

The  chase  was  troublesome  and  long.  180 

The  horse  was  almost  tir'd  to  death. 

"  Pray,  let  me  take  a  little  breath, 

(He  said),  or  else  you'll  break  my  wind." 

"Not  I,  forsooth,  (replied  the  Hind). 
T  was  you,  who  led  me  on  this  chase ;  185 

Then  feel  my  spurs,  and  mend  your  pace." 

So  Envy,  while  on  harm  't  is  bent, 
Contrives  oft  its  own  punishment. 

The  fable  of  the  Dog  and  Ass 
Stood  next  upon  my  Looking- Glass.  190 

One  Master  they  serv'd  both  together; 
The  Lap-Dog  slept  on  beds  of  feather ; 
At  dinner  with  his  Lord  he  sat, 
And  fed  on  nicest  meat  and  fat ; 
His  master  on  his  lap  oft  took  liim,  195 

And  there  he'd  feed  and  kiss  and  stroke  him  ; 
For  which  the  Dog  did  never  fail 
To  lick  his  hand,  and  wag  his  tail. 
The  Ass,  who  oft  of  this  took  notice, 
Thought  to  himself :  "  I  don't  know  how  't  is,    200 
This  little,  lazy,  puny  whelp 
Hath  leave  to  wheedle,  fawn  and  yelp, 
And  teaze  his  master,  while  poor  I 
Am  left  to  fret  and  mortify. 

I'm  sure,  my  master,  with  a  score  205 

Of  whelps  like  this,  could  do  no  more 


160  REYNARD    THK    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

In  twelve  months  time,  than  I  alone 

In  single  weeks  have  often  done. 

He  feasts  on  sweetbreads  and  on  gristles, 

While  I  must  live  on  fern  and  thistles,  210 

And  whilst  he  snores  in  sloth  secure, 

The  beating  tempest  I  endure  ; 

Nay,  saucy  boys  around  me  flock, 

And  make  of  me  a  laughing-stock. 

In  troth,  this  will  no  longer  do;  215 

I'll  win  my  master's  favour  too." 

By  chance  his  master  came  along ; 
Jack  Ass  inton'd  his  fav'rite  song, 
And  with  a  loud  :  "  Y-aw,  y-aw," 
lie  leapt  on  him  and  lick'd  his  jaw,  220 

And  wagg'd  his  tail  about  his  ears, 
Till  from  his  eyes  he  drew  the  tears. 
The  master,  all  in  ra"ge  and  pain, 
Call'd  out,  to  have  the  bumpkin  slain  ; 
On  which  the  servants  came  out  all,  225 

And  cudgel'd  him  into  his  stall, 
Where  he  remain'd  just  what  he  was. 

And  so  sometimes  a  two-legg'd  Ass 
Men  of  high  rank  and  manners  apes, 
By  awkward  bows  and  lowly  scrapes,  230 

Till,  by  meanness  or  by  chance, 
To  place  or  pension  he  advance ; 
But  then  the  dignity  he  wears, 
As  sows  would  jewels  in  their  ears. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDOX.  161 

Then  let  all  Asses  drudge  away,  235 

And  feed  on  thistles  and  on  hay  ; 
For  when  they  're  rais'd  to  rank  and  place. 
Their  Country  faces  it  disgrace. 

If  y'are  not  tir'd  to  hear  me  prate, 
Another^story  I'll  relate,  240 

Which  on  the  mirror  was  engrav'd 
How "Gfi5  once  to  my  Sire  behav'd. 
They  both  together  took  a  walk, 
And  after  various  friendly  talk 
They  made  a  solemn  league,  and  swore  245 

That  they  would  separate  no  more, 
And  that,  if  huntsmen  came  to  chase  them, 
Together  they  would  stand,  and  face  them. 

Too  soon  they  heard  the  dreadful  whoop 
Of  hunters,  coming  in  a  troop,  250 

,  And  as  the  hounds  did  louder  yelp, 
Gib,  all  aghast,  cried  out  for  help. 
My  father  told  him  :  "  Take  a  heart, 
And  my  whole  budget  I'll  impart ; 
But  mind  your  promise  to  be  true,  255 

And  stand  by  me,  as  I'll  by  you." 

Gib  said :  "  Be  all  that  as  it  may, 
I  know  but  of  one  single  way, 
Which  from  the  hounds  can  rescue  me." 
He  nimbly  climb'd  upon  a  tree,  260 

And  left  my  Sire,  to  stand  the  brunt 
Of  hounds  in  cry  and  whooping  hunt, 
ll 


1 62  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

While  lie  look'd  on  and  said  :  "  To  ope 

Your  budget,  you  have  now  full  scope." 

The  hunt  came  up  and  horns  did  sound,  265 

To  cheer  the  rider,  horse  and  hound. 

My  father  for  his  life  did  run, 

The  greedy  beagles  for  to  shun ; 

He  eas'd  himself  by  breaking  wind 

And  shooting  ballast  from  behind,  270 

Until  his  den  with  great  effort 

He  reach'd,  and  got  safe  into  port. 

Thus  by  the  friend  he  was  betray'd, 
On  whom  he  most  relied  for  aid  ; 
And  many  people  in  that  way  275 

A  friend  in  danger  will  betray. 

The  fourth  partition  did  contain 
A  story  of  the  Wolf  and  Crane. 
It  show'd,  how  meanly  Growler  paid 
A  surgeon  for  his  timely  aid.  *  280 

Whilst  he  was  roving  o'er  a  ground, 
The  carcase  of  a  horse  he  found ; 
The  Ravens  had  not  left  him  much, 
But  still  his  appetite  was  such, 
That  he  the  very  bones  would  suck,  285 

Of  which  one  in  his  gullet  stuck. 
He  was  much  for  his  life  in  fear, 
And  sent  for  surgeons  far  and  near. 
If  any  body  could  relieve  him 
(Said  he),  great  treasures  he  would  give  him.    290 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  163 

The  Crane  to  him  his  service  proffer'd, 
To  whom  a  great  reward  he  offer'd. 
He  thrust  his  bill  into  his  throat, 
And  with  some  pain  the  bone  came  out. 

"  You  bungler,  (cried  the  Wolf),  how  sore     295 
You've  made  my  throat !     Do  so  no  more, 
Or  else  be  sure,  I'll  make  you  rue ;     • 
For  oncf.,  Sir,  I  will  pardon  you." 

"  Nay,  I've  achiev'd  the  cure,  (said  he), 
And  should  be  glad  to  touch  my  fee."  300 

"Your  fee  !   (cried  Growler)  ;  are  you  mad? 
'T  is  I,  who  all  the  pain  have  had ; 
If  one  of  us  can  claim  a  fee, 
'T  is  due  to  nobody  but  me, 

For  calmly  letting  you  withdraw  305 

Your  head  unhurt  out  of  my  jaw." 

AH  rogues  in  this  ungrateful  way 
Past  services  are  wont  to  pay. 

These  stories,  which  I  have  related, 
Were  on  the  Mirror  amply  stated  310 

In  words  and  figures.     I  confess, 
I  was  not  worthy  to  possess 
This  precious  jewel.     When  I  sent  it, 
I  to  the  Queen  wish'd  to  present  it. 
It  gri£v'd  my  little  Rankey's  heart,  315 

When  with  it  he  was  forc'd  to  part ; 
For  he  before  it  skipp'd  about, 
And  wagg'd  his  tail,  and  primm'd  his  snout. 


1 64  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

I  never  thought,  that  Pussy's  end 

The  sending  of  it  should  portend;  320 

For  better  friends,  I  do  declare, 

I  knew  not,  than  the  Ram  and  Hare, 

Or  else  I  would  not  by  them  both 

Have  sent  such  precious  things,  in  troth. 

But  I'm  determined,  Sir,  to  know  325 

What  is  become  of  them,  I  vow ; 

For  theft  and  murder  will  come  out, 

However  they  may  lurk  about ; 

And  may  be,  some  here  present  are, 

Wflo  could  best  tell,  who  kill'd  the  Hare.  330 

My  Liege,  I  don't  pretend,  a  King 
Should  recollect  each  trifling  thing ; 
Or  else  you  possibly  might  know 
What  zeal  my  father  once  did  show 
To  yours,  when  he  was  very  ill,  335 

And  got  well,  through  my  father's  skill ; 
For  although  you  are  pleas'd  to  say, 
We  serv'd  you  ne'er  in  any  way, 
My  father  in  his  time  was  known 
To  be  with  yours  in  great  renown.  340 

He  vied  with  any  Leech,  for  curing 
Men's  ills,  by  looking  at  their  urine. 
May  be,  you  never  have  been  told 
(For  you  were 'then  but  few  months  old) 
How  your  Sire  lay  so  sick  a-bed,  345 

That  with  a  tea-spoon  he  was  fed. 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  165 

Physicians  from  all  parts  were  come, 

From  Berlin,  Edinburgh  and  Rome ; 

But  howsoe'er  they  cupp'd  and  blister'd, 

And  purg'd  and  vomited  and  clyster'd,  35t) 

It  grew  worse  with  him  every  day, 

Until  my  father  came  this  way, 

Who  found  him  almost  without  breath, 

Complaining,  he  was  sick  to  death. 

"  My  Liege,  to  save  you  (said  my  Sire)          355 
I  should  be  ready  to  expire  ; 
Pray,  make  your  water  in  a  Glass." 
The  King  did  so,  weak  as  he  was. 

His  head  at  first  my  father  shook, 
When  at  the  urine  he  did  look.  360 

One  thing  (he  said  at  last)  we'll  try ; 
But  it  must  be  done  instantly, 
Else  in  a  few  hours  you'll  be  dead, 
Because  your  water  looks  quite  red.  • 

But  a  Wolf's  liver,  six  years  old,  365 

May  save  you,  if  you  eat  it  cold." 

The  Wolf,  who  was  standing  near,    . 
Was  much  perplex'd.     "  Pray,  did  you  hear 
(Your  father  said)  what  here  we  want  ? 
Your  liver  you  to  us  must  grant."  370 

The  Wolf  exclaim'd :  "  Upon  my  word, 
I'm  not  yet  five  years  old,  My  Lord." 

"  That  will  appear  (my  Sire  replied)  • 
Soon  as  your  liver  we  have  tried." 


166  REYNARD    THE    POX.  [PART  IV. 

In  short,  however  he  did  quiver  375 

And  quake,  he  could  not  save  his  liver, 
Your  father  ate  it,  and  anon 
He  felt  that  all  his  pain  was  gone. 
The  King  then  call'd  my  father  Sir 
And  did  great  praise  on  him  confer ;  380 

He  made  him  wear  a  Doctor's  hood, 
And  high  in  his  esteem  he  stood. 

Past  services  are  now  forgot, 
Since  Knaves  have  trust  and  favour  got, 
Who  nought  for  right  and  justice  care,  385 

But  only  mind  their  own  affair, 
Nay,  King  and  Country,  for  the  sake 
Of  interest,  they  will  forsake, 
Just  like  the  Wolf,  who  did  not  care, 
His  liver  to  the  King  to  spare  ;  390 

For  what  's  begot  of  sordid  seed, 
Nfer  aims  at  an  heroic  deed" 

"  This  tale  (said  Noble),  which  you  tell 
Of  your  late  Sire,  sounds  mighty  well. 
But  if  such  service  he  hath  done,  395 

It  must  be  many  years  agone  ; 
Past  my  remembrance  it  must  be, 
Nor  was  it  ever  told  to  me  ; 
But  as  to  your  exploits,  I  own, 
Much  less  of  them  I  wish  were  known.  400 

If  it  is  all -a  false  report, 
For-  your  sake  I  am  sorry  for  't ; 


CAHTO  I.}  THE    SECOXD    PARDON.  167 

But  little  good  we  hear  of  you." 
"  Report  doth  not  of  me  speak  true, 

(Quoth  Reynard),  and  I  hope  you  '11  own,          405 

That  to  Yourself  my  zeal  I  've  shown ; 

Nor  do  I,  Sir,  presume  to  boast : 

AH  merit  is  in  duty  lost. 

You  '11  recollect  that  heretofore 

Growler  and  I  once  caught  a  boar.  410 

Perchance,  as  You  were  passing  by 

Whilst  we  kill'd  him,  you  heard  his  cry ; 

You  came  and  said,  that  with  the  Queen 

A  hunting  you  had  likewise  been, 

But  having  had  a  wretched  day,  415 

You  wish'd  to  share  with  us  our  prey. 

Growler,  who  was  not  fond  of  this, 

Between  his  teeth  did  mumble  :  "  Ye  —  s  " ; 

But  I  with  hearty  glee  call'd  out : 

"  My  Liege,  pi'ay,  who  shall  help  about  ?  420 

Though  we  have  but  this  single  Boar, 

You  are  as  welcome,  as  if  't  were  more." 

"  Let  Growler  cut  up,"  You  replied. 
With  this  he  seem'd  well  satisfied ; 

A  quarter  he  dealt  out  to  You,  425 

And  to  the  Queen  a  quarter  too, 

The  rest  he  all  devour'd  alone, 

And  scarcely  left  for  me  a  bone. 

When  you  your  pittance  of  the  Boar 

Had  eat,  you  wish'd  for  something  more,  430 


168  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

But  Growler  little  minded  it, 

And  did  not  offer  you  a  bit ; 

For  which  you  hit  him  such  a  blow, 

That  down  his  cheeks  the  gore  did  flow. 

"  Henceforth  learn  better  to  divide  435 

(You  said),  or  I  shall  taw  your  hide. 

Be  gone,  and  get  us  more  to  eat." 

"  I'll  go  with  Kim,  if  you  think  't  meet," 
Said  I,  and  you  said  :  "  Yes,  you  may." 

Growler  had  rather  wish'd  to  stay,  440 

For  full  of  blood  was  all  his  face, 
And  howling  be  began  the  chase; 
But  soon  a  fine  fat  fawn  we  caught, 
Which  made  you  smile,  when  it  was  brought. 
You  told  me,  that  in  case  of  need  445 

I  knew  well,  how  to  hunt  with  speed, 
And  you  bade  me  divide  the  booty. 

"  One  half  (said  I)  is  Yours  in  duty, 
The  other  to  the  Queen  belongs, 
And  to  your  young-ones  heart  and  lungs  ;          450 
The  head  to  Growler,  (for  't  is  sweet), 
And  I'm  contented  with  the  feet." 
You  ask'd  :  "  Who  taught  you  this,  sly  varlet  ?  " 

u  Yon  Doctor  with  his  cap  of  scarlet, 
(Said  I)  ;  from  him  I  learn'd  to  know,  455 

How  to  distribute  Fawn,  or  Sow." 

So  Growler's  gluttony  brought  shame 
On  him.     With  all  Wolves  't  is  the  same ; 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  169 

If  their  advantage  they  can  find, 

Nor  law,  nor  justice  they  will  mind.  460 

Woe  to  the  City  and  the  Land, 

Where  Wolves  have  got  the  upperhand  ! 

This  single  case  I'll  only  mention, 
My  Liege,  to  prove  my  good  intention, 
And  that  I  can  with  truth  profess,  465 

That  all  is  Yours,  which  I  possess. 
If  you  think  of  the  Fawn  and  Boar, 
You'll  judge,  which  of  us  loves  you  more  ; 
And  yet  to  Growler  and  to  Brown 
The  greatest  honours  now  are  shown,  470 

And  Reynard  guilty  must  appeal', 
While  You  his  plea  refuse  to  hear. 
I  am  accus'd,  but  I  repeat  it, 
Whate'er  my  fate  may  be,  I'll  meet  it. 
If  I  deserve  to  be  reprov'd.  475 

Let  it  by  witnesses  be  prov'd, 
Or  else  let  my  antagonists 
Meet  me,  like  Men,  in  open  lists, 
And  let  each  party  for  the  sake 
Of  justice,  life  and  honour  stake.  480 

This,  Sir,  is  what  the  Laws  command, 
And, what  in  justice  I  denland." 

Quoth  Noble  :  "  Never  be  it  said, 
That  I  the  course  of  Justice  stay'd. 
Reynard  hath  been  accus'd  ('t  is  true),  485 

That  Puss  feloniously  he  slew, 


170  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  IV. 

And  when  the  Ram  brought  us  her  head,          • 

It  griev'd  me  much,  that  she  was  dead. 

But  since  none  of  us  here  can  tell 

Through  whom  this  hard  fate  her  befell,  490 

To  Reynard  We  forgive  the  past, 

In  hopes,  that  he'll  prove  true  at  last. 

If  other  people  will  complain, 

Redress  by  Law  they  shall  obtain, 

If  witnesses  of  good  report  495 

Can  prove  the' facts  in  open  Court." 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  Many  thanks  to  You, 
My  Liege,  for  giving  me  my  due. 
For  I  declare  upon  my  oath, 

To  part  with  Pussey,  I  was  loth,  500 

Though  I  did  not  suspect  at  all, 
That  such  a  fate  would  her  befall." 

Thus  Reynard  did  with  artful  speech 
All  who  were  present,  overreach ; 
He  made  them  swallow  every  thing  505 

About  his  Mirror,  Comb  and  Ringi_ 
And  thinking  that  his  tale  was  true, 
They  pitied  and  consol'd  him  too. 
The  King,  desirous  to  obtain 

These  precious  toys,  could  not  refrain  510 

From  telling  him :  "  Pray,  do  not  fret ; 
Your  jewels  you  again  may  get ; 
You  have  my  leave,  to  range  about 
Through  all  my  Realm,  to  find  them  out, 


CANTO  I.]  THE    SECOND    PARDON.  171 

And -my  support  shall  not  be  wanting."  515 

You  are  too  kind,  (said  Reynard,  canting)  ; 

If  you'll  take  vengeance  for  the  theft 

And  mimler,  to  me  be  it  left, 

To  use  all  diligence  and  care, 

At  once  t'  explore  this  dark  affair.  520 

To  You  I  shall  but  for  support 

In  case  of  greatest  need  resort, 

Although  it  is  my  firm  intent, 

To  you  those  jewels  to  present, 

And  if  by  good  luck  I  succeed,  525 

It  will  give  joy  to  me,  indeed." 

The  King,  much  pleas'd,  gave  full  belief 

To  the  intriguing,  lying  thief, 

Who  free  permission  did  obtain, 

To  stroll  about  through  his  domain.  530 

But  Growler  grew  exceeding  wroth. 

"  I  am  (said  he)  surpris'd  in  troth, 

That  you  this  wicked  rogue  believ'd, 

By  whom  you've  been  so  oft  deceiv'd. 

He  is  made  up  of  tricks  and  lies,  535 

And  cheats  you  still  before  your  eyes. 

But  ere  he  goes  you'll  hear  and  see, 
•  He'll  not  come  off  so  cheap  with  me. 

Three*  things  I  have  against  him  still ; 

Let  him  deny  them  if  he  will,  540 

But  he  shall  not  go  out  of  Court, 

Though  I  must  even  fight  him  for  't. 


172  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  IT. 

"  There  should  be  witnesses,"  you  say  ; 

But  where  is  oue  to  take  them,  pray  ? 

The  artful  Knave  is  much  too  sly,  545 

T*  offend,  when  witnesses  are  by ; 

And  when  he  talks,  there  is  no  scope 

For  any  one,  his  mouth  to  ope. 

His  friendship  hath  done  good  to  none; 

For  he  hates  you  and  every  one ;  550 

But  he  shall  not  stir  from  the  spot, 

Till  I  revenge  on  him  have  got." 


CANTO  II.  — THE   DEFIANCE. 


ARGUMENT. 

Growler  complains,  that  once  his  wife 
For  Reynard's  sake  near  lost  her  life. 
Surly  relates,  how  in  a  well 
For  him  a  sacrifice  she  fell. 
Reynard  these  charges  both  denies, 
And  calls  them  calumnies  and  lies. 
The  wolf  declares,  that  they  must  fight, 
To  try,  who  's  wrong,  and  who  is  right. 


'•  ri^HIS  fox  (quoth  Growler),  I  protest, 

-•-    Is  an  arch  villain,  at  the  best. 
He  oft  hath  wroug'd  me  in  my  life, 
And  brought  disgrace  upon  my  wife. 
Once  to  a  mill-pond  he  did  lead  her,  5 

And  through  the  mud  to  wade,  he  .bid  her. 
He  told  her  :  "  If  you'll  get  a  pail 
Of  finest  trout,  hang  out  your  tail, 
And  you'll  get  more  in  half  an  hour, 
Than  in  six  meals  you  can  devour."  10 

[173] 


174  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

When  she  had  waded  through  the  mud, 

Till  in  the  deepest  mire  she  stood, 

The  villain  bade  her,  to  hang  out 

Her  tail,  to  catch  her  dish  of  trout. 

It  was  just  in  the  winter-season,  15 

And  by  degrees  the  ice  did  freeze  on 

Her  tail,  until  she  felt  at  last, 

That  in  the  ice  it  stuck  quite  fast ; 

But  thinking  it  was  with  the  weight 

Of  th'  fish,  she  pull'd  with  all  her  might.  20 

Reynard  perceiving  this,  alas  ! 

I'm  loth  to  tell  what  next  did  pass : 

The  rascal  came  and  ravish'd  her, 

While  she,  poor  creature,  could  not  stir. 

This  I  defy  him  to  deny ;  25 

For  while  I  happen'd  to  pass  by, 

I  caught  him  in  the  flagrant  act, 

Which  almost  made  me  run  distract. 

I  cried  :  "  Vile  rogue,  what  dost  thou  there  ?  " 

The  villain,  seeing  I  was  near,  30 

Took  to  his  heels  and  ran  away ; 

I  came  in  hurry  and  dismay, 

And  was  forc'd,  through  the  mud  to  wade, 

And  in  cold  water  long  to  bathe, 

Ere  I  my  suff'ring  wife  could  rescue,  35 

And  free  from  bondage  her  distress'd  cue ; 

Nor  did  I  quite  succeed  at  last, 

For  near  one  third  of  it  stuck  fast 


CANTO  H.]  THE   DEFIANCE.  175 

In  th'  ice.     My  wife  began  to  bawl, 

And  rais'd  the  peasants,  great  and  small,  40 

Who  in  the  mill-pond  soon  espied  us, 

And  most  unmercifully  plied  us. 

'T  was  at  great  hazard,  that  my  wife 

And  I  at  last  could  save  our  life, 

For,  what  with  cudgels,  prongs  and  flails,  45 

With  broomsticks,  pokers,  tongs  and  pails, 

Both  men  and  women  charg'd  us  home. 

'  Look  here,  (they  said),  these  thieves  are  come, 

To  steal  our  Ewes  and  Lambs  away  ; 

Let  us  the  daring  robbers  slay."  50 

'T  was  our  good  luck  that  night  came  on, 

Or  else  we  should  have  been  undone. 

We  to  the  pond  again  did  brush, 

And  hid  ourselves  among  the  rush  ; 

On  which  the  peasants  ceas'd  th'  attack,  55 

And  cursing  us,  they  all  fell  back. 

My  Liege,  he  must  not  for  this  rape 

A  severe  punishment  escape." 

"  We  heard  you,  (quoth  King  Noble)  pray 
Let's  see  what  Reynard  hath  to  say."  60 

"  My  Liege,  (quoth  he),  if  this  was  true, 
I  durst  not  show  my  face  to  You.. 
I  to  a  pond  have  show'd  her  once, 
But,  what  with  th'  dulness  of  her  sconce, 
What  with  her  eagerness,  the  route  65 

She  kept  not,  which  I  pointed  out. 


176  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  IT 

Besides,  she  loiter'd,  till  at  last 

Her  tail  did  in  the  ice  stick  fast. 

If  she  in  time  had  pull'd  it  out, 

She  would  have  got  her  fill  of  trout.  70 

To  him,  who  drinks  till  the  last  sip, 

The  cruse-lid  on  his  nose  will  slip, 

And  those,  who  are  for  ever  craving, 

Are  apt  to  lose,  by  dint  of  saving. 

So  Surly  with  her  covetousness  75 

Did  bring  herself  into  distress. 

Look  now,  what  thanks  from  them  I  got, 

That  to  assist  her,  I  did  trot. 

I  did  my  best  to  drag  her  out ; 

But  she's  so  heavy  and  so  stout,  80 

That  all  my  labour  was  in  vain. 

Then  Growler  came  and  bawl'd  amain  ; 

A  thief  and  ravisher  he  call'd  me, 

And  I  must  own,  his  wrath  appall'd  me  ; 

He  rav'd  and  ranted,  curs'd  and  swore,  85 

And  with  his  claws  the  ground  he  tore. 

When  two  dogs  fight  about  their  prey, 

One  of  them  must  give  up  the  fray  ; 

Therefore  I  had  no  mind  to  stay, 

And  wisely  took  myself  away.  90 

His  fury  did  not  even  cease, 

When  he  his  wife  came  to  release, 

And  till  this  very  day  You  see 

What  spiteful  grudge  he  bears  to  me. 


CANTO  II.]  THE    DEFIANCE.  177 

If  by  the  Clowns  they  were  pursued,  95 

I'm  apt  to  think  it  did  them  good, 

Because  it  kept  them  both  in  breath, 

Or  else  they  had  been  chill'd  to  death. 

This  is  however  their  affair, 

And  little  for  it  do  I  care  ;  100 

But  Growler  ought  to  be  asham'd, 

On  his  own  wife  to  cast  a  blame. 

Ask  her  ;  she  can  best  answer  You, 

And  would  complain,  if  he  spoke  true." 

"  Reynard  (said  Surly),  you  are  sly ;  105 

You  scruple  not  to  tell  a  lie, 
And  to  turn  matters  with  such  art, 
As  to  make  other  people  smart. 
Of  this  a  story  I  can  tell : 

One  night  I  found  you  in  a  well ;  110 

The  rope  had  buckets  at  each  end, 
In  one  of  which  you  did  descend, 
But  never  could  get  up  again. 
I  heard  you  cry  with  fear  and  pain, 
And  came  to  ask,  what  was  the  matter.  115 

You  soon  began  to  feign  and  flatter ; 
"  If  you  are  fond  of  eating  fish 
'  (You  said),  here  you  can  have  your  wish. 
A  bucket  you  above  will  find, 

If  to  come  down  you  have  a  mind.  120 

I  such  a  copious  meal  did  make, 
That  I  have  got  the  belly-ache." 

12 


178  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PABT  IV. 

I  stept  in,  and  to  my  surprise, 
As  I  went  down,  I  saw  you  rise. 
I  ask'd  you  how  this  came  to  pass.  125 

You  answer'd  :  "  So  it  always  was, 
When  fools  are  going  down,  the  wise 
At  their  expence  are  seen  to  rise" 

When  you  got  out,  you  ran  away, 
And  I  was  left  there  all  the  day ;  130 

A  Clown  descried  me  in  the  well, 
And  to  his  friends  he  ran,  to  tell : 
"  The  Wolf,  who  steals  our  lambs  and  sheep, 
Is  got  into  a  draw-well  deep  ; 

If  you  will  come  and  pull  him  out,  135 

We'll  treat  him  with  a  cudgel-bout." 
It  was  most  pityful  to  see, 
How  they  did  taw  and  curry  me  ; 
I  never  felt  so  hot  a  day, 
And  narrowly  I  got  away."-  140 

Quoth  Reynard :  "  'T  was,  because  I  knew, 
It  would  be  better  to  leave  you, 
Than  get  myself  into  the  scrape  ; 
Because  we  could  not  both  escape. 
Besides  it  serv'd  to  caution  you,  145 

Well  to  discern,  what's  false  or  true, 
And  to  beware  with  whom  you  treat. 
The  world  is  full  of  sly  deceit." 

Quoth  Growler :  "  This  is  but  too  true ; 
I've  been  so  oft  deceiv'd  by  you,  150 


CANTO  II.]  THE   DEFIANCE.  179 

That  I  can  not  relate  it  all. 

The  foulest  hap  did  me  befall, 

When  to  the  monkies  once  you  led  me, 

Who  worried  and  almost  flay'd  me. 

The  she-ape  was  a  monstrous  beast,  155 

And  foul  and  filthy  was  her  nest. 

You  call'd  her  Aunt,  to  take  me  in, 

And  make  the  monster  tear  my  skin. 

I  thought,  I  was  got  into  hell, 

And  made  all  haste,  to  come  off  well."  1 60 

Here  Reynard  interrupted  him 
And  said  :  "  It  is  a  curious  whim, 
Or  Growler  is  a  Jackanapes, 
To  talk  of  monkies  and  of  apes. 
It  may  be  now  three  years  ago,  165 

When  on  his  grand-tour  he  would  go  ; 
I  was  with  him  when  he  did  prance 
And  play._the  Nobleman  in  France, 
Till  his  last  guinea  he  had  spent. 
One  day  to  the  Baboons  we  went.  170 

Those  Baboons  are  not  of  our  Kin, 
Nor  was  it  to  take  Growler  in, 
That  I  the  She-Baboon  call'd  Aunt; 
But  knowing  that  she  lik'd  to  vaunt, 
I  thus  my  speech  chose  to  preface  175 

Merely  to  captivate  her  Grace ; 
Or  else  she  might  be  hang'd  for  me, 
For  a  most  ugly  bitch  is  she. 


180  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PAKT  IV. 

Along  a  by-road  we  did  stroll, 

When  we  discover'd  a  deep  hole.  180 

Growler  began  his  old  complaint, 

That  he  with  hunger  was  quite  faint ; 

I  said :  "  The  Owner  of  this  cave 

Some  store  of  meat,  perhaps  may  have ; 

If  that's  the  case,  we  of  his  fare  185 

Should  try  to  come  in  for  a  share." 

Quoth  he:  "Well  Reynard,  go  in,  pray; 
Meantime  below  this  tree  I'll  stay. 
You  are  more  elocfuent  than  I, 
And  you  know  best  how  to  apply.  190 

If  you  find  that  there  is  good  cheer, 
Come  back  and  let  me  know  it  here." 

I  went,  although  I  plainly  saw 
That  he  used  me  for  a  Cat's  paw ; 
But  when  I  came  in,  I  must  own,  195 

I  almost  fell  into  a  swoon  ; 
For  there  I  with  a  hideous  set 
Of  fierce  and  ugly  monsters  met, 
And  I  was  forc'd  to  creep  along 
At  bo-peep  through  the  filthy  throng,  200 

Till  I  came  to  their  dam  at  last. 
I  found  her  laying  in  her  nest ; 
Wide  was  her  mouth,  her  tooth  and  nail 
Were  sharp,  and  long  her  daggling  tail. 
I  thought  she  was  the  devil's  dam,  205 

And  all  aghast,  I  call'd  her  Ma'am. 


CANTO  II.]  THE    DEFIANCE.  181 

And  Aunt,  and  any  thing,  for  fear ; 

For  her  young  black-guards  too  drew  near ; 

They  were  as  uncouth  as  their  mother, 

And  chatter'd  loud  and  made  a  pother;  210 

Up  to  their  ears  in  rotten  hay 

And  in  their  own  dung  they  did  lay ; 

She  was  as  tall  as  Growler  is ;  , 

Some  of  her  whelps  were  not  much  less. 

I  was  alone  among  this  crew,  215 

And  to  tell  truths  there,  would  not  do. 

I  therefore  feign'd  as  if  I  knew  her, 

And  very  courtly  went  up  to  her. 

"  Dear  Aunt,  (said  I),  I'm  glad  to  see 
You  and  your  pretty  family.  220 

What  sprightly  children  you  have  got ! 
They  look  like  a  King's  sons,  I  wot, 
And  very  much  like  you  they  are. 
If  I  had  known  that  here  you  Avere, 
Long  since  I  should  have  call'd  on  you,  225 

To  see  how  my  young  cousins  do." 
She  readily  took  up  the  cue, 
And  feign'd,  as  if  full  well  she  knew 
That  I  a  nephew  was  to  her. 

"  Be  welcome  here  (said  she),  good  Sir.  230 

To  see  my  nephew,  gives  me  pleasure, 
And  for  my  children  't  is  a  treasure ; 
For  with  your  kind  advice,  they  will 
In  manners  be  improving  still." 


182  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

So  I  was  for  a  well-tim'd  word,  235 

Receiv'd  with  open  arms,  My  Lord, 
And  yet  I  long'd  to  get  away ; 
But  she  said :  "  No  Sir,  you  must  stay, 
And  of  pot-luck  must  take  a  part, 
Ere  we  allow  you  to  depart."  240 

This  said,  the  table  soon  was  fraught 
With  choicest  victuals,  which  she  brought, 
Of  wild-fowl,  venison  and  cake  ; 
God  knows  where  she  all  this  did  take. 
Thus  I  sat  down  and  eat  my  fill,  245 

And  she  at  parting,  gave  me  still 
A  dainty  haunch,  and  told  me  :  "  Pray, 
Take  this  for  luncheon  on  your  way, 
And  let  us  see  you  soon  again." 

I  promis'd  it,  but  I  was  fain  250 

To  take  my  leave,  for  with  the  smell 
Her  den,  I  thought,  was  worse  than  hell. 
To  Growler  I  ran  back  apace, 
And  found  him  laying  in  the  place, 
Where  I  had  left  him.    "  Pray,  what  cheer  ?  "    255 
Said  I.     Quoth  he :  "  'T  goes  very  queer ; 
I  am  with  hunger  fairly  spent." 

My  Knapsack  I  of  course  unbent, 
And  with  the  haunch  I  had  receiv'd, 
I  from  his  hunger  him  reliev'd.  260 

He  thank'd  me  then  for  the  boon ; 
But  he  forgot  my  kindness  soon. 


CANTO  11.]  THE  DEFIANCE.  183 

• 

When  he  had  done,  he  said  :  "  Pray,  now 

I  wish  that  you  would  let  me  know 

Who  't  is,  that  lives  beneath  this  hill,  265 

And  how  you  found  it,  well  or  ill." 

I  told  him  plainly,  that  the  nest 
Was  foul  and  filthy,  at  the  best ; 
But  that  there  was  good  store  of  meat, 
And  if  he  would  go  in  and  eat,  270 

Above  all  things  I  would  advise, 
To  hold  his  tongue,  if  he  was  wise. 
For  those,  who  are  for  ever  bent 
On  censuring,  must  oft  repent, 

And  they  are  oft  obliged  to  fast,  275 

While  others  get  a  good  repast. 
This  I  exhorted  him  to  mind, 
If  he  a  dinner  wish'd  to  find. 
I  caution'd  him,  to  take  great  care, 
Of  illtim'd  meddling  to  beware  ;  280 

If  he,  neglecting  what  I  said, 
Hath  for  his  petulance  been  paid, 
I'm  sure  it  was  his  fault,  not  mine, 
At  which  he  was  left  to  repine. 
But  fools  are  known,  to  have  this  vice,  285 

That  they  will  never  take  advice, 
And"  Growler,  in  his  stubborn  way, 
Scorn'd  to  take  mine  and  trudg'd  away. 

When  to  the  Baboon's  nest  he  came, 
And  saw  the  young-ones  and  the  Dame,  290 


184  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

• 

lie,  startled  at  their  ugly  features, 

Call'd  out :  "  Lorx^what  hideous  creatures ! 

Do  they  belong  to  you  ?  pray  tell ; 

Or  were  these  imps  spit  out  by  hell  ? 

If  they  were  mine,  I  would  not  own  them,        295 

But  rather  tuck  them  up,  or  drown  them." 

"  Pray,  who  the  devil  sent  you  here, 
(Cried  the  baboon),  to  interfere  ? 
What  bus'ness,  you  rude  clown,  have  you,  . 
Thus  to  rail  at  my  little  crew  ?  300 

Reynard,  Sir,  I  can  let  you  know, 
Thinks  well  of  them.     He  said  just  now 
That  they  were  well  behav'd,  and  fit, 
At  a  King's  table  for  to  sit. 

He  call'd  them  cousins,  and  did  love  them ;        305 
If  you  've  a  meaner  notion  of  them, 
Nobody,  Sir,  call'd  for  you  here, 
Nor  your  opinion  wants  to  hear." 

He  still  call'd  rudely  for  some  meat. 
"Make  haste,  (he  said),  I  want  to  eat.  310 

'T  is  better,  you  give  it  to  me, 
Than  to  these  Elves,  whoso  they  be." 
He  of  their  victuals  would  lay  hold, 
But  they  seiz'd  on  him,  young  and  old ; 
They  bit  and  scratch'd,  and  tore  his  skin,  315 

Till  he  in  haste  ran  out  again. 
In  a  sad  plight  he  did  appear, 
For  in  the  fray  he  lost  an  ear, 


CANTO  II.]  THE   DEFIANCE.  185 

And  look'd  all  bloody  and  uncouth. 

I  ask'd :  "  Didjrou_blab_ou£the  trutkL"  .--         32 

He  said:  "I  spoke  just  as  I  found  it, 
And  for  this  I  was  sorely  wounded ; 
But  if  the  cursed  bitch  was  here, 
She  should  pay  for  it  very  dear. 
Her  brats  look'd  like  some  imps  from  hell,          325 
Which  I  could  not  forbear  to  tell, 
When  in  such  fury  they  seiz'd  on  me, 
That  they  had  very  nigh  undone  me." 

"  How  foolishly  (said  I)  you  did ! 
Was  't  this,  you  had  by  me  been  bid  ?  330 

I  told  you,  you  should  strive  to  cozen 
The  beldam,  and  should  call  her  Cousin, 
And  friendly  ask  her :  "  How  d'ye  do 
With  all  your  charming  little  crew  ?  " 

"  The  dev'l  I  would  say  so,  (quoth  he)  ;          335 
They  are  no  Cousins,  fit  for  me, 
And  ere  for  such  they  shall  be  own'd, 
I'll  sooner  see  them  hang'd  or  drown'd." 

Thus  all  was  owing,  as  You  see, 
To  his  misconduct,  not  to  me.  340 

The  truth  of  this,  he  best  can  tell, 
For  he  must  recollect  it  well." 

The  Wolf  at  last  to  him  replied : 
"  Reynard,  it  matters  not  to  chide  ; 
W_e^mustjlecide  by_single  fight^  345 

Which  of  us  two  is  wrong,  or  right. 


186  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  IV. 

You  talk  about  the  monkey's  nest, 

Pretending  that  by  hunger  press'd, 

By  you  I  kindly  was  reliev'd. 

A  bone  was  all  that  I  receiv'd,  350 

From  which  the  meat  was  all  gnaw'd  off. 

You  only  say  this  for  a  scoff; 

You  oft  have  slanderM  and  abus'd  me, 

And  have  before  the  King  accus'd  me 

Of  trait' rous  schemes  against  his  life.  355 

You  'ye  ravish'd  and  betray/d  my  wife;. 

You  told  the  King  a  heap  of  lies 

Of  treasures  hid,  and  precious  toys. 

With  all  those  misdeeds  old  and  new, 

I  charge  you  and  will  fight  with  you.  360 

A  battle  you  with  me  must  wage, 

And  life  for  life  we  must  engage. 

My  glove  I  here  throw  on  the  ground : 

w__«L-C! 

To  take  it  up,  Sir,  you  are  bound. 

My  Liege,  and  Lords,  before  you  all  365 

To  single  Combat  I  him  call. 
Don't  suffer  him  to  sneak  away, 
Till  you  decide,  who  wins  the  day." 

Reynard  was  in  no  pleasant  mood, 
To  go  and  venture  life  and  good.  370 

This  Wolf  (thought  he)  is  stout  and  tall, 
And  I,  though  nimble,  am  but  small ; 
But  one  advantage  I  have  got, 
Else  all  my  tricks  would  go  to  pot ; 


CANTO  EL]  THE   DEFIANCE.  187 

He  can  not  hurt  me  with  his  claws,  375 

Of  which  I  lately  stripp'd  his  paws, 

And  though  he  may  pluck  up  a  heart, 

I  think  he  still  must  feel  the  smart. 

"  Growler,  (said  he),  you  tell  a  lie, 

And  all  your  charges  I  deny ;  380 

To  meet  you  I  am  not  afraid ; 

I  only  for  your  challenge  stay'd. 

A  pledge  I  will  deposit  here, 

That  I  to-morrow  -shall  appear." 

The  King  the  pledges  did  receive,  385 

And  granting  to  the  Parties  leave, 
He  order'd  them  both  to  give  bail, 
To  meet  next  moi-ning  without  fail. 
For  Growler,  Gib  and  Brown  the  bear 
Were  sureties,  that  he  should  appear,  390 

And  Gray  the  badger,  .did  with  Maynard 
The  monkey's  son,  give  bail  for  Reynard. 

Now  mistress  Pry  to  Reynard  said : 
"  My  friend,  you  need  not  be  afraid ; 
My  husband,  ere  he  went  to  Rome,  395 

Left  me  his  pocket-book  at  home, 
In  which  a  prayer  he  did  write 
For  those,  who  are  about  to  fight. 
An"  Abbot,  who  esteem'd  him  much, 
Gave  it  to  him ;  its  pow'r  is  such,  400 

That  any  one,  for  whom  't  is  read 
Ere  breakfast,  (so  the  Abbot  said), 


188  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

Is  sure  that  nobody  can  slay, 

Or  deadly  wound  him  on  that  day. 

This  pray'r  I'll  say  for  you  to-morrow ;  405 

Then  send  away  all  care  and  sorrow." 

He  thank'd  her,  and  she  made  him  shear 
From  back  and  belly  all  his  hair ; 
This  done,  she  carefully  rubb'd  in 
Much  grease  and  oil  into  his  skin.  410 

"  To-morrow  morning,  when  you  rise 
(Said  she),  to  tirink  much,  I  advise; 
But  keep  your  water,  while  you  are  here, 
And  when  before  the  lists  you  appear, 
Void  all  of  it  into  your  tail,  415 

And  it  will  serve  you  without  fail. 
First  you  must  run  against  the  wind, 
And  where  the  thickest  dust  you  find ; 
He  will  pursue  you ;  then  you  mu.«* 
Endeavor  to  kick  up  the  dust,  420 

And  with  your  tail  his  eyes  must  hit, 
And  you  will  blind  him  soon  with  it. 
Meantime  you  now  should  go  to  sleep, 
And  we  strict  watch  for  you  shall  keep ; 
But  first  of  all  I  will  with  speed  425 

The  holy  prayer  for  you  read  : 
Gaude,  Abra  Cadabara, 
Hocus  pocus,  Beth  Abara. 
Now  Reynard,  with  this  pow'rful  spell 
You  are  from  hurt  secur'd  full  well.".  430 


CANTO  n.]  THE   DEFIANCE.  189 

Reynard  lay  down,  and  was  next  day 
Wak'd  by  the  Otter  and  by  Gray. 
A  goose  they  brought  for  his  repast, 
And  cheerfully  he  broke  his  fast. 
This  done,  all  those  who  did  befriend  him,          435 
Came  into  the  lists  t'  attend  him. 


CANTO   III.  — THE   BATTLE. 


ARGUMENT. 

A  bloody  battle  now  ensues ; 
The  Wolf  at  first  the  Fox  pursues, 
Who  teases  him  with  cunning  flight, 
And  almost  rob's  him  of  his  sight. 
Stout  Growler  next,  wlien  nearly  slain, 
Gets  th'  upperhnnd  of  him  again. 
Reynard  at  last  once  more  assails  him, 
And  Growler's  prowess  nought  avails  him. 

"YYTHEN  Reynard  came  along,  the  King 
'  T      Could  not  refrain  from  simpering. 

Reynard,  (thought  he),  thou  artful  Knave, 

Who  taught  thee  thus  to  grease  and  shave  ? 

Thou  art  a  cunning  rogue  indeed  ;  5 

I  long  to  see  how  thou  wilt  speed. 
Reynard  now  bent  to  him  his  knee, 

And  paid  the  Queen  his  courtesy ; 

With  seeming  unconcerned  face, 

Before  the  lists  he  took  his  place,  10 

[190] 


CANTO  IH.]  THE   BATTLE.  191 

Where  Growler  and  his  friends  he  found. 

The  trumpets  then  began  to  sound, 
And  next  the  Wardens  did  appear, 
And  call'd  the  Champions  forth  to  swear. 
Growler  advauc'd  ;  his  oath  to  take ;  •  15 

He  swore  that  Reynard  was  a  rake, 
A  murd'rer  and  a  treach'rous  wight, 
For. which  assertion  he  would  fight. 

Then  Reynard  in  his  turn  did  swear, 
That  Growler  was  a  perjurer;  20 

To  prove  his  charge  he  did  defy  him, 
Because  he  basely  did  belie  him. 

The  Wardens  then  admonish'd  both, 
To  fight  with  honour  and  good  troth. 
This  being  done,  the  lists  were  clear'd,  25 

Where  both  the  Combatants  appear'd. 

Once  more  did  Pry  the  Fox  remind 
Of  what  she  erst  to  him  enjoin'd. 

"  I  know  (said  he)  you  mean  it  well, 
And  for  your  comfort  let  me  tell  30 

That  this  is  not  the  first  adventure, 
In  which  my  limbs  and  neck  I  venture ; 
And  as  to  this  vile  caitiff  here, 
I  am  not  much  of  him  in  fear ; 
I  shall  come  off  with  victory  35 

And  honour  to  my  family." 

The  Combatants  with  equal  rage 
And  fury  now  began  t'  engage. 


192  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

The  Wolf,  by  dint  of  strength  and  art, 

Attack'd  the  Fox  with  leap  and  start;  40 

But  Reynard,  being  shrewd  and  light, 

Avoided  him  by  cunning  flight, 

And  while  he  ran  he  did  not  fail 

To  water  well  his  rugged  tail. 

When  Growler  meant  to  hold  him  fast,  45 

He  nimbly  veer'd  about  at  last, 

And  with  his  tail  the  dust  and  dirt 

He  full  into  his  face  did  flirt. 

Whilst  Growler  rubb'd  his  eyes  with  pain, 

Reynard  his  flirts  renew'd  again,  50 

Till  Growler  was  quite  spent  at  last, 

And  by  the  throat  he  held  him  fast. 

"  Sir  Wolf,  (he  said),  if  heretofore 

Poor  lambs  and  kids  you  oft  have  tore, 

It  is  high  time  now  to  repent,  55 

Before  your  last  breath  you  have  spent, 

And  with  contrition  to  behave, 

If  you  would  wish  your  soul  to  save." 

In  this  provoking  style  he  spoke, 
Striving  his  enemy  to  choke  ;  60 

But  Growler  was  for  him  too  strong, 
And  broke  loose  from  his  hold  ere  long ; 
Though  ere  he  got  out  of  his  jaws, 
Reynard  gall'd  him  with  teeth  and  claws ; 
One  of  his  eyes  was  almost  out,  65 

And  streams  of  blood  ran  down  his  snout. 


CANTO  HI.]  THE   BATTLE.  193 

As  soon  as  he  his  blood  did  view, 
At  Reynard  in  a  rage  he  flew ; 
He  got  him  under,  and  his  paw 
He  seiz'd,  and  held  it  in  his  jaw.  70 

"  You  caitiff,  your  last  hour  is  come,    . 
(Said  he),  and  you'll  meet  with  your  doom. 
It  shall  not  avail  you  now,  to  shear, 
To  flirt,  kick  up  a  dust  and  smear. 
I'll  make  you  pay  for  all  your  lies,  75 

And  for  the  damage  of  my  eyes." 

Now  .Reynard  was  in  great  distress ; 
He  thought  t'  himself:  If  I  confess, 
I  am  a  dead  man ;  and  if  not, 
Death  ne'ertheless  will  be  my  Lot.  80 

But  howsoever  this  may  fall, 
I  have  deserv'd  it  after  all. 

"  Dear  Cousin,  (said  he),  be  not  wroth, 
For  what  hath  pass'd,  I'm  very  loth ; 
Take  for  your  fine  all  that  I  have ;  85 

Nay,  send  me  to  the  holy  grave, 
Or  if  you  bid  me  I  will  roam 
For  you  to  Compostell  and  Rome ; 
I'll  take  my  oath  that  I'll  be  true 
In  all  eternity  to  you ;  90 

Your  slave  and  vassal  I  will  be, 
And  so  shall  all  my  clan  with  me. 
Whatever  I  may  catch  of  game, 
I'll  bring  to  you  and  to  your  Dame ; 
13 


194:  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

Of  geese  and  ducks  of  fowl  and  fish,  95 

You'll  daily  get  the  nicest  dish ; 

I'll  watch  for  you  and  for  your  wife, 

That  no  one  shall  attempt  your  life. 

I  am  deem'd  shrewd  and  you  are  stout ; 

So  we  can  help  each  other  out ;  100 

For  with  your  strength  and  with  my  skill, 

Wo  must  prevail  where'er  we  will. 

Besides,  we  are  so  near  a-kin, 

That  hurting  me  would  be  great  sin. 

Nay,  if  I  could  have  waiv'd  this  fight,        *        105 

It  would  have  been  my  great  delight. 

But  although  forc'd  against  my  will, 

I  in  the  battle  spar'd  you  still. 

You  would  have  been  much  worse  annoy'd, 

If  all  my  skill  I  had  employ'd.  110 

Great  harm  as  yet  hath  not  been  done  ; 

I  hope  your  eye  is  not  quite  gone, 

And  if  I  can  I  do  assure  you, 

I'll  do  my  very  best  to  cure  you. 

Nay,  if  it  turns  out  otherwise,  115 

Some  good  of  it  will  still  arise ; 

For  't  will  be  saving  pains  to  you, 

To  shut  one  window  and  not  two, 

I  offer  you  another  thing : 

Here,  in  the  presence  of  the  King,  120 

My  wife  and  both  my  sons  shall  pay 
Obeisance  to  you,  and  shall  pray, 


CAXTO  III.]  THE    BATTLE.  1 95 

That  for  their  sake  you  would  forgive 

Their  Sire,  and  suffer  him  to  live. 

I'm  ready  also  to  declare,  125 

That  basely  I  the  truth  did  spare  ; 

That  I  belied  and  cheated  you, 

Though  nothing  bad  of  you  I  knew. 

I  do  not  know  what  greater  offer, 

I  to  the  King  himself  could  proffer.  130 

My  life  is  in  your  hands,  't  is  true, 

But  pray,  what  good  will  't  do  to  you, 

To  kill  me  ?     You  'd  have  cause  to  fear 

All  my  relations,  far  and  near. 

You  are  too  prudent  and  too  wise,  135 

And  know  too  well  yourself  t'  advise, 

While  you  can  gain  for  better  ends, 

A  set  of  true  and  constant  friends. 

To  me  't  is  much  the  same,  God  wot, 

If  you  will  kill  me  now  or  not."  140 

"  Don't  take  me,  Sir,  for  such  a  goose 
(Quoth  Growler),  as  to  let  you  loose. 
If  you  could  give  a  World  of  gold, 
I  would  not  now  let  go  my  hold. 
Too  oft  you  've  broke  your  oath  before,  145 

And  I  shall  trust  your  words  no  more. 
I  should  not  get  from  you  a  straw 
If  I  was  to  release  your  paw. 
As  to  your  friends,  I  do  not  care ; 
Let  them  offend  me,  if  they  dare.  150 


196  REYNARD    THE   FOX.  [PART  IV. 

Look  out  pray,  for  some  other  fool, 

You  thief,  to  make  of  him  your  tool. 

You  say  you  spar'd  me  ?     'T  is  a  lie. 

Have  you  not  robb'd  me  of  an  eye  ? 

Aud  did  you  leave  me  but  to  fetch  155 

Your  breath,  a  moment's  time,  you  wretch  ? 

No,  't  were  the  greatest  blame  for  me 

To  grant  you  life  and  liberty  ; 

For  more  than  once  you  to  my  wife 

And  me  have  forfeited  your  life."  160 

Whilst  Growler  kept  hold  of  the  paw, 
Sly  Reynard  with  his  other  claw 
Seiz'd  him  in  such  a  tender  part, 
That  it  made  Growler  howl  with  smart, 
And  forc'd  him  soon  to  ope  his  jaw,  1 65 

And  to  let  go  th'  imprison'd  paw. 
Reynard  now  tugg'd  and  pull'd  and  tore, 
And  made  the  Wolf  spit  blood  and  gore ; 
He  brought  him  senseless  to  the  ground, 
And  dragg'd  him  through  the  lists  around.          170 

When  this  his  wife  and  friends  perceiv'd, 
They  were  much  terrified  and  griev'd ; 
They  pray'd  the  King  to  use  his  right, 
And  to  suspend  the  bloody  fight. 

The  King  took  their  request  to  heart,  175 

And  bade  the  Champions  straight  to  part, 
To  whom  the  Leopard  and  the  Ounce, 
As  Wardens,  did  his  will  announce. 


CANTO  III.]  THE    BATTLE.  197 

"  Reynard,  (they  said),  the  King  has  sent, 

To  let  you  know  't  is  his  intent  180 

To  put  an  end  to  all  your  strife. 

He  bids  you  to  spare  Growler's  life ; 

For  't  would  be  pity 'after  all, 

If  either  of  you  both  should  fall. 

Meantime  all  who  are  present  say,  185 

That  you  at  last  have  won  the  day." 

"  I'm  glad,  you  tell  me 'this ;  I  thank  ye 
And  will  obey  the  King,  (quoth  Rankey). 
To  win  the  day  was  all  I  wanted. 
I  only  beg,  that  leave  be  granted  190 

To  all  my  friends  here,  to  declare 
What  they  may  think  about  th'  affair." 

They  all  call'd  out  with  one  accord : 
"  We  wish  that  you  obey  our  Lord." 
And  straight  about  him  they  did  crowd,  195 

And  came  to  wish  him  joy  aloud. 
E'en  those,  who  lately  did  complain, 
Strove  most,  his  favour  now  to  gain, 
And  brought  their  wives  and  daughters  in, 
To  claim  the  honour  of  his  Kin.  200 

While  fortune  smiles,  the  World  is  kind. 
And  friends  and  flatterers  we  find; 
But  soon,  as  wealth  and  pow'r  decay, 
Both  friends  and  flatterers  skulk  away. 
So  Reynard's  friends,  when  he  had  won  205 

The  day,  their  fairest  face  put  on ; 


198  REYNARD    Til 3    FOX.  [PART  IV. 

With  fifes  and  drums  they  made  a  levy, 

And  call'd  upon  him  to  be  merry. 

"  In  troth  you  fought  it  well  (they  said)  ; 

At  first  we  rather  were  afraid,  210 

You  would  be  worsted ;  but  with  glee 

We  saw  you  gain  the  victory, 

And  we  admir'd  your  skill  and  wit." 

"  It  was  indeed  a  lucky  hit," 

Said  he.     The  Wardens  of  the  Ring  215 

Came  to  present  him  to  the  King. 
"  Reynard,  (quoth  Noble),  We  must  say 
That  in  the  end  you  won  the  day. 
You  stand  acquitted  of  the  Charge, 
And  from  all  fines  We  you  discharge ;  220 

The  rest  we  shall  consult  about, 
As  soon  as  Growler  can  go  out ; 
Meantime  it  ought  to  satisfy  ye, 
That  We  adjourn  it  sine  die" 

"  My  Liege,  (quoth  Reynard),  I  abide  225 

By  what  You  graciously  decide. 
I've  been  accus'd  by  many  here, 
With  whom  I  ne'er  did  interfere ; 
But  they  would  call  out :  "  Crucify !  " 
As  soon  as  Growler  rais'd  a  cry.  230 

They  knew  he  held  a  better  place, 
Than  I  of  late  in  your  good  Grace ; 
No  one  durst  venture  to  control  him, 
But  all  were  eager  to  cajole  him, 


CANTO  III.l  THE   BATTLE.  1 99 

And  therefore,  whether  right  or  wrong,  235 

They  with  the  current  went  along. 

They  those  hungry  Dogs  resembled, 

Who  at  a  kitchen-door  assembled 

In  hopes  of  meeting  with  a  treat. 

A  Cur  had  stole  a  joint  of  meat,  240 

And  though  the  scullion  with  a  pail 

Of  boiling  lees  bedew'd  his  tail, 

He  did  not  lose  hold  of  his  prey, 

Which  in  his  mouth  he  brought  away. 

When  this  his  comrades  saw,  they  all  245 

With  one  accord  began  to  call : 

"  What  joint  this  Cur  hath  got,  pray  look  ! 

He  must  have  made  friends  with  the  Cook." 

"  Yes,  (said  the  Cur),  fine  friends  indeed! 
You  talk  so  while  you  see  the  meat ;  250 

But  if  you  look  at  me  behind, 
May  be  you  soon  will  change  your  mind." 

They  look'd,  and  when  they  saw  how  bald 
His  back  and  tail  were  with  the  scald, 
Away  they  hurried  every  one,  255 

And  left  the  scalded  Cur  alone. 

Just  so  at  last  the  Greedy  speed  ; 
They  don't  want  friends  whilst  they  succeed, 
For  every  one  looks  for  a  share, 
Or  pittance  of  the  dainty  fare,  260 

While  those  who  dare  t'  oppose  their  wishes, 
Get  nothing  of  the  loaves  and  fishes ; 


200  RETXARD    THE    FOX.  [PART  IT. 

But  to  the  tail  they  never  look, 

Till  they  are  scalded  by  the  Cook ; 

For  seldom  they  maintain  their  place,  265 

But  are  turn'd  out  with  great  disgrace. 

This,  Sir,  shall  never  be  my  case  ; 

I'll  strive  to  merit  your  good  Grace, 

And  use  my  wit  for  noble  ends, 

To  gain  applause  from  foes  and  friends."  270 

"  No  more  of  this,  (the  King  replied)  ; 
I'm  with  your  promise  satisfied, 
And  therefore  I  again  restore 
A  Baron's  rights  t'  you  as  before ; 
But  while  with  pow'r  We  you  invest,  27o 

Take  care  to  use  it  for  the  best. 
If  you  are  wise  in  your  deport, 
You  will  be  useful  to  the  Court ; 
For  with  the  keenness  of  your  wit, 
The  nicest  points  you  know  to  hit.  280 

I  will  hear  no  complaints  of  you, 
As  long  as  you  are  good  and  true  ; 
You  shall  be  Chancellor  of  State, 
And  shall  preside  at  each  debate  ; 
And  all  our  Subjects  shall  abide  28o 

By  what  you  order  and  decide." 

Thus  Reynard  first  became  so  great 
In  Court  and  City,  Church  and  State, 
That  whatsoe'er  he  doth,  in  spite 
Of  rhyme  or  reason,  must  be  right.  290 


CAXTO  III-l  THE    BATTLE.  201 

Meantime  poor  wounded  Growler  lay 
Stretch 'd  on.  the  ground  in  great  dismay. 
His  Wife  and  Children,  Gib  and  Brown, 
Came  forth  in  dumps,  and  much  cast  down, 
And  on  a  barrow  strew'd  with  hay,  295 

They  gently  carried  him  away. 
The  Surgeons  came,  his  wounds  to  see, 
Of  which  they  counted  twenty  three, 
Which  having  dress'd,  they  rubb'd  a  dose 
Of  powder'd  herbs  into  his  nose,  300 

To  make  him  sneeze,  and  with  a  draught 
They  made  him  purge,  both  fore  and  aft. 
This  done  they  did  assure  his  Wife, 
There  was  no  danger  for  his  life. 
He  tried  to  take  a  little  rest, '  305 

35ut  was  with  grief  too  much  oppress'd ; 
For  Reynard  had  so  sorely  gall'd  him, 
That  pain  and  anguish  quite  appall'd  him. 

Reynard  now  went,  and  begg'd  the  King, 
To  grant  him  leave  for  travelling,  310 

His  Wife  and  Children  to  relieve, 
Who  for  his  absence  much  would  grieve. 

King  Noble  granted  his  request, 
And  only  bid  him  do  his  best 

Soon  to  return  to  Court  again.  315 

He  promis'd  it,  and  with  a  train 
Of  friends  and  clients  he  set  out, 
And  proudly  wagg'd  his  tail  about. 


202  REYNARD    THE    FOX.  [PAKT  IV. 

Full  many  there  are  now-a-days, 
Who  get  preferr'd  by  Reynard's  ways.  320 

Red  beards  they  do  not  always  show ; 
But  that  they  're  deep  ones  all  Men  know. 
He  now  return'd  to  Malpertouse, 
Where  we  shall  leave  him  with  his  Spouse, 
Relating  to  her  what  had  pass'd :  325 

How  he  had  beat  the  Wolf  at  last, 
And  had  regain'd  the  Kings  good  grace, 
Who  rais'd  him  to  the  highest  place. 

Here  ends  the  Fable.     Our  intent 
Was  to  amuse  you,  while  we  meant  330 

To  show,  what  th'  adage  says  of  old : 
That,  Wit  is  better  far  than  Gold. 


THE     END. 


A    001  170277 


)1*v          -V/.  \\\\ 


^clOS  ANGELA 


3   1158  00682 


Universi 


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